Home Plate

Photograph by Bennett Pruitt

What can be more American in the summer than a perfectly grilled juicy hamburger? How can one deny the sizzling sounds of patties on hot grill exuding the tantalizing aromas weaving through the back yard? I think it’s the favorite menu for kids and grown-ups alike. It’s easiest to prepare, yet most versatile to put together. Boring will never be associated with burgers.

Anything goes when comes to building burgers. With any kind of meat that can be formed to patties served between buns of your choice with whatever condiments you so desire, you can certainly concoct the most original creative and tasty burgers around.

If you are looking for some new exotic flavors to add to your favorite hamburger recipe, try these three Asian-style variations:

Thai-Style Burgers

Add pepper jack cheese, spread Sriracha chili sauce and mayo on buns, top with spicy herb sauce (recipe below).

Spicy herb sauce:
½ cup mint leaves
½ cup cilantro leaves
1 green onion, chopped
1 shallot, sliced
2 Thai chilis, chopped
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp lime juice
Pinch of sugar

Mix all ingredients well in a small bowl. Keep in a refrigerator until ready to use. Can be made two days in advance.

Vietnamese-Style Burgers

Add pepper jack or swiss chesse, spread with hoisin sauce and mayonnaise on buns, top with daikon-radish slaw (recipe below).

Daikon-carrot slaw:
2 large carrots, shredded
2 cup shredded daikon radish
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 Thai chilis, chopped
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp lime juice
¼ cup rice vinegar
¼ cup fish sauce

Mix all ingredients well in a medium bowl. Keep in a refrigerator until ready to use. Can be made two days in advance.

Japanese-Style Burgers

Add mild cheddar, spread with wasabi and mayo, top with teriyaki sauce, pickled ginger, and sliced cucumbers.