Chorizo, a type of spicy pork sausage, has many regional variations with the most popular being the Spanish and Mexican versions. Spanish chorizo is made from fermented, cured, or smoked pork and pork fat that is coarsely chopped and seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and salt. Unlike its cured counterpart from Spain, Mexican chorizo requires cooking and is typically spicier than other varieties as it is made with finely ground meat, chili peppers, and seasonings. Chorizo is most often prepared by grilling, frying, or simmering in liquid. It can be enjoyed by itself, in a sandwich, or even as a topping on pizza. Chorizo burgers are a favorite riff on the all-American burger that is particularly popular in the Basque-influenced state of Nevada. The spicy burgers are a blend of beef and chorizo sausage, wonderfully augmented with roasted peppers and a smoky blend of spices. They are commonly eaten for lunch with a side salad, French fries, or chips and guacamole.
Recipe Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 onion, chopped
- Pinch of saffron powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb dry chorizo, casing removed and diced small
- 3 medium onions, sliced
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 roasted red pepper, chopped
- 4 round soft rolls
- 1 Tbsp butter
- ½ cup queso blanco or Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Directions
- In a heavy skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook, stirring, until translucent.
- Add saffron and paprika and stir until just combined.
- In a large bowl, combine beef and chorizo. Add onion mixture and mix thoroughly. Set aside.
- Wipe the skillet and return to medium heat. Add remaining olive oil, sliced onion, and brown sugar.
- Saute until golden and caramelized, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add red pepper, stirring just to combine.
- Divide meat into four equal portions and form into patties.
- Heat a grill to high and grill burgers for 5 minutes on each side. Set aside to rest.
- Split and butter rolls. Toast on grill to warm through and melt butter.
- Place burgers on buns. Top with onion-pepper mixture and cheese.
- Serve immediately.
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