3 Way Onion Burger with Applewood Bacon and Aged Smoked Cheddar

Directions

Step 1

Melt butter in a large saucepan. Add the garlic, tomato paste and water. Stir until tomato paste dissolves. Add the chopped chipotle peppers and sauce to the pan. Stir to combine. Add the remaining ingredients and simmer for about 30 minutes.

Step 2

Strain and set aside.

Step 3

Caramelized Onions:

Step 4

(Can be made a day or two ahead of time)

Step 5

Thinly slice the red onions. Melt butter in a large skillet and add garlic, onions, salt and pepper. Cook stirring occasionally until wilted and have browned. Add 1 cup chipotle BBQ sauce and simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 6

Beef Patties:

Step 7

Cut the root end off the scallions,. Brush with olive oil and place on the grill or in a grill pan. Grill all sides until grill marks appear. Remove, chop, and set aside.

Step 8

Place ground beef in a bowl and add chopped scallions, about 1 tbsp each salt and pepper. Mix together and form into patties about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 9

With 2 slices of bacon cut in half making 4 smaller pieces, then by weaving, create a lattice and fry until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 10

Place each patty on the grill, about 5-6 minutes on each side for medium well. Top burgers with cheddar the last minute of cooking. Place on a platter, cover with foil and set aside.

Step 11

Onion Rings:

Step 12

Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep heavy pot to 350 degrees F.

Step 13

While oil is heating, cut the onions into 1/4 inch thick slices and place in a large bowl. Mix flour, cornmeal and 2 tbsps salt and divide into 2 bowls.

Step 14

Wisk eggs together in small bowl.

Step 15

Coat onions, a couple slice at a time in flour mixture first, then eggs, then flour again. Repeat until they are all coated.

Step 16

Fry in oil until golden brown and set to drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with more salt immediately after frying.

Step 17

Assemble the burger:

Step 18

Butter the pretzel buns and toast.

Step 19

Place 1/4 cup caramelized onions on the bottom bun. Add patty and top with cheddar cheese, bacon lattice, and onion rings.

Step 20

Enjoy!