Build a Better Burger

June 08, 2023 • York, Maine

Written by: Hannah Aisling - Digital Marketing Specialist

With summer barbecues and backyard parties right around the corner, you may be looking to improve your burger game. Here, we’ll break down the key parts of a burger and how to wow your guests with savory sauces, perfect patties and our favorite recipes. Read on for our guide to build a better burger.

An image of a rustic serving board with a baked brie covered in chutney and bacon pieces flanked by crackers, berries and an open jar of chutney, all on a light gray granite countertop.

1. The Theme

The food industry sometimes calls this a ‘flavor profile’, but don’t let that scare you! This is just a fancy way to say what theme you’re going with for your burger. Brainstorm and decide on what flavors you want to achieve. Are you thinking a classic style burger with lettuce and ketchup? Or maybe some Cajun flair with Louisiana style seasoning? How about a fresh take on Mediterranean by adding feta cheese? The possibilities are endless!

An image of a rustic serving board with a baked brie covered in chutney and bacon pieces flanked by crackers, berries and an open jar of chutney, all on a light gray granite countertop.

2. The Patty

Everybody loves a classic beef burger. We like to use a ground beef mix that is 80% lean because the fat ratio is the key to keeping your burger juicy and providing that ultra-satisfying beefy flavor. Don’t forget to flavor your ground beef! Pick an Urban Accents Spice Blend or Burger Recipe Mix that compliments your theme, and season beef with 1 tablespoon spice blend per pound. Ground beef needs plenty of salt, so be sure you’ve got just the right seasoning balance by frying a small taster patty before you form your burgers. Had one too many beef burgers already this summer? Lighten it up with a salmon burger or a tasty turkey burger.

3. The Condiments

When it comes to savory spreads, we’ve got it covered. Whether you’re looking to keep it simple with some Country Ketchup and Traditional Pub Style Mustard, or spice things up with Sriracha Aioli, there is something for everyone. A collection of condiments on the table to mix and match is the key to find your favorite combinations. Here you will want to look for creamy, spicy, sweet and sour additions.

4. The Toppings

This is a great area to get adventurous. When choosing toppings, it’s just as important to consider adding texture as well as flavor. Both burger patties and buns have soft, chewy textures, so compliment that with something crisp like lettuce, fresh onions, or Tillen Farms Baby Cucumbers. It’s best to create a station with fresh produce, pickled items, and various cheeses.

An image of a rustic serving board with a baked brie covered in chutney and bacon pieces flanked by crackers, berries and an open jar of chutney, all on a light gray granite countertop.

5. The Bun

Of course, any bun will do, but try to keep your bun on theme. For a classic burger, try a squishy potato bun or a buttery brioche roll. Wholesome wheat rolls work well with healthy options like turkey or black bean burgers. If you’re on a Mediterranean kick, try a pita pocket! Who said your buns need to be bread? We like to use waffles and add a fried egg to make a breakfast burger, we’ve even done tomato BLT sliders and forgo the bun altogether!

An image of a rustic serving board with a baked brie covered in chutney and bacon pieces flanked by crackers, berries and an open jar of chutney, all on a light gray granite countertop.

Whichever way you grill it, we hope you find some inspiration for your new favorite flavors. Happy Grilling Season from Stonewall Kitchen!

Hannah Aisling • Digital Marketing Specialist at Stonewall Kitchen

Hannah has been with Stonewall Kitchen since 2016. She joins the Marketing Team as a Digital Marketing Specialist, combining her experience from the E-commerce and Merchandising. When not in the office, you can find Hannah in the garden working on her pumpkin patch, at the beach, or snuggled up with her favorite furry friend, Rosie the cat.