Vermont Cheddar Burgers with Warm Maple Ketchup
A classic American cheeseburger topped with sharp Vermont cheddar cheese and maple-flavored ketchup.
- Ingredients:
- 1 Basic Burger Recipe
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 tablespoon grated sweet onion
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 4 thick slices Vermont sharp white cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Maple Glazed Onions (optional - instructions follow)
Preparation:
Follow the instructions for the Basic Burger Recipe and prepare the patties for grilling. While the burgers chill, combine the ketchup, tomato paste, vinegar, maple syrup, grated onion and a few grinds of black pepper in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Warm over low heat or at 50% power. Stir until smooth, cover and set aside.
Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to a medium-high temperature (about 400°F). Oil the grates, add the burgers and grill until you see juices start to accumulate on the top of the meat, approximately 4 minutes. Flip them over and top with cheese after about 1 minute. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, to desired doneness. While the burgers rest, lightly toast the buns on the grill.
To serve, place a burger on each bun, top with onions and Maple Ketchup.
Makes 4 servings
Maple Glazed Onions:
Slice a large sweet onion into 4 or 5 thick slices. Make a grilling tray large enough to hold them in a single layer from heavy duty foil. Brush the onion slices with a little vegetable oil and season both sides with salt and pepper. Arrange on the foil and grill until soft, about 6 to 8 minutes, turning once. Brush with maple syrup and continue cooking for about 3 more minutes. Watch closely as the maple syrup can burn rather easily. Transfer to a cutting board, chop roughly and set aside for the burgers.
