Smash Burger: Discover the Smashed Hamburger

What does smash burger mean?

The smash burger is a particular hamburger preparation that in recent years has conquered the palates and hearts of food enthusiasts all over the world.

The main feature of this hamburger is the cooking method: the patty, or the disk of meat, is literally crushed on a hot plate. This action, the "smash", creates a crispy and golden outer crust, while inside the meat remains juicy and pink.

Why is it called Smash? The name "smash" actually comes from the English verb meaning "to crush". This action, in addition to creating the characteristic crust, serves to evenly distribute the heat on the surface of the patty, ensuring even cooking. Additionally, by squashing the meat, juices are released that caramelize upon contact with the plate, giving the burger an intense, umami flavor.

Who invented the smash burger?

There is no official inventor of the smash burger. It is more of a technique that has been rediscovered and revisited in recent times, inspired by old American diners where hamburgers were prepared in this way.

However, in recent years the smash burger has experienced a real renaissance, thanks to its simplicity and intense flavor.

Many chefs and restaurateurs have revisited this traditional technique, proposing increasingly creative and original variations.

How do you make a smash burger?

Making a smash burger is easier than you might think, but it requires a few precautions: Meat : The choice of beef is crucial. It is recommended to use ground beef with a fat percentage between 20% and 25%. This will ensure a juicy and tasty burger. Patty shape : Form meat discs that are slightly larger than the size of the sandwich, so that they can be flattened during cooking. Cooking : the griddle must be very hot. Place the patty on the griddle and press it with a spatula. After a few seconds a crust will form, at this point you can turn the patty and continue cooking. Toppings : Once cooked, the burger is ready to be stuffed. The combinations are endless, but the classics are cheddar cheese, bacon, caramelized onion, and sauces like barbecue or mayonnaise.

What pan to use for smash burger?

The ideal pan for making smash burgers is a cast iron or stainless steel pan, capable of reaching very high temperatures. These pans ensure even cooking and promote the formation of the crust.

Which bread for smash burger?

The ideal bread for a smash burger is a soft and fluffy bun, capable of easily holding the burger and all the toppings.

You can use a classic hamburger bun, or experiment with other types of bread, such as brioche bun or sesame bun. The important thing is that the bread is fresh and of good quality.

Additional Smash Burger Tips

• The Meat : Uses high quality fresh ground beef.
• Salt : Only add salt to the burger after cooking it, to avoid it losing its juices.
• Toppings : Be creative with toppings! You can use sauces, cheeses, vegetables, and any other ingredients you like.
• French Fries : French fries are the perfect accompaniment to the smash burger. You can make them at home or buy them ready-made.

The smash burger is a quick and easy dish to prepare, but it offers endless possibilities for customization. Experiment with different types of meat, toppings and bread to find your favorite combination. Enjoy!