 | Rod Baumberger
is a Fitness Specialist at Health Strategies/Life Strategies Foundation. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Fitness Management from Newman University. In addition to his other duties, Rodney is an education coordinator in pulmonary rehabilitation and is a senior initiative coordinator. You may reach Rodney at Health Strategies, (316) 651-8015, or at the facility at 551 N Hillside, Wichita, KS 67214. |
Diet & Nutrition
2005-07-01 11:46:00
Backyard burger perfection
: How do I grill the perfect backyard burger?
ANSWER: Although most outdoor chefs will disagree (OK guys-there really is an art to outdoor cooking), grilling the perfect burger is simple as long as you keep a few important tips in mind. Start with the patty. Americans tend to think that a burger has to be an "all beef patty", but you can really use most anything: pork, turkey, lamb or even a veggie patty. Of course beef is great too. Get the medium fat, coarse ground beef to make the perfect patty. • While the grill is heating, mix the ground chuck, salt, and pepper (and any additional spices desired) in a medium mixing bowl. Mix lightly, using your hands. (Remember wash your hands before and after handling ground beef.) When making hamburger patties make sure they have a consistency that will hold together on the grill. Form into patties 1” thick by 5" in diameter.• Oil the cooking grate on your grill. You can use cooking spray or oil on a paper towel.• Preheat grill to a high temperature.A hot grill is one you cannot hold your hand over. To test heat, place you hand just above the cooking grate. If it's too hot to keep your hand in place, then the grill is just right.• Quickly place all the patties on the hot grill and close the lid.• Wait about 2-3 minutes.• With a metal spatula test to see if the burger easily lifts from the grate. If not continue grilling, until it does.• Flip all the patties.• Close lid and continue grilling for another 2-3 minutes.• Once again check the patties to make sure they have released from the grate and flip one more time.• Continue grilling until juices from the burgers run clear and the patties have a solid feel.• Remove from grill and check to make sure they are cooked through by using a fork to pierce through the center.If burgers are too pink in the middle return to grill for another minute or so. Otherwise serve as desired.
