These diminutive burgers (adapted from a recipe by Alton Brown, host of Food Network's "Good Eats") may be customized with whatever condiments you like -- ketchup, mayonnaise, onions, pickles, relish, shredded lettuce or tomatoes. They're ideal to serve when watching your favorite sport on TV.
MINI MAN BURGERS
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 pound ground chuck
8 (3-inch) buns or rolls, split in half
Condiments, to taste
1. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees. Preheat a griddle to 350 degrees.
2. Combine the onion powder, garlic powder, pepper and salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Line a jelly roll or sheet pan with parchment paper and place the ground chuck in the middle of the pan. Cover the meat with a large sheet of plastic wrap. Roll meat with a rolling pin until it covers the surface of the pan; it should be very thin. Remove the plastic wrap, and sprinkle the meat with the seasoning mixture. Fold the meat in half, from side to side, using the parchment paper. Use a pizza wheel to cut the meat into 8 even squares.
4. Wrap the buns in foil and place in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, place the burgers on the griddle and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side.
5. Remove the buns from the oven. Spread each bun with ketchup and/or mayo, if desired, and top the burger with any other condiments you like. Serve immediately. Makes 8 sliders.
North Shore
