Introduction
Polish Hamburgers, or “Kotlety Mielone,” are a delicious and hearty twist on the classic hamburger, incorporating flavors and ingredients that are staples in Polish cuisine. These burgers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner or a summer barbecue. With a blend of ground beef and chicken ham, seasoned with mustard and Worcestershire sauce, these burgers are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe combines ground beef with chicken ham, bread crumbs, and a variety of seasonings to create a tender, flavorful patty. The patties are cooked to perfection on the grill or skillet and served on toasted hamburger buns with your favorite garnishes.
Key Components:
- Patties: A mixture of ground beef and chicken ham, seasoned with mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion, and garlic.
- Buns: Toasted hamburger buns provide the perfect base for these savory patties.
- Garnishes: Classic burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground chicken ham
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Pickles
Instructions
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 pound of ground chicken ham, 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, 1/4 cup of milk, 1 egg, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Shape Patties:
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
- Cook Patties:
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Toast Buns:
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.
- Assemble Burgers:
- Place each patty on a toasted bun and top with your choice of garnishes such as lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
- Serve:
- Serve the burgers immediately, while hot and juicy.
Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 350 kcal per serving
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These Polish Hamburgers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some suggestions to complement your meal:
Sides:
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is a classic side that pairs well with these savory burgers.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, meaty patties.
- French Fries: Crispy, golden french fries are always a hit with hamburgers.
Beverages:
- Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade offers a sweet and tangy complement.
- Iced Tea: Classic iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, pairs perfectly with these burgers.
- Soda: A refreshing soda can provide a fizzy balance to the meal.
Variations of the Recipe
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to suit your preferences:
Meat Variations:
- Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- All Beef: Use only ground beef for a more traditional hamburger flavor.
Flavor Enhancements:
- Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy: Mix shredded cheese into the meat mixture or add a slice of cheese on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking.
Health Benefits
These Polish Hamburgers offer a nutritious and balanced meal:
Key Nutrients:
- Protein: Both ground beef and chicken ham provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins: The addition of fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomato adds vitamins and minerals to the meal.
- Iron: Ground beef is rich in iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the blood.
Notes
- Mixing: Ensure all ingredients are well combined to prevent the patties from falling apart during cooking.
- Cooking Temperature: Always cook the patties to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
FAQs
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
How can I make the patties less dense?
To make the patties lighter, avoid over-mixing the meat mixture and consider adding a splash of water or broth to the mixture.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa as a binder.
How should I store leftover cooked patties?
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet before serving.
Conclusion
Polish Hamburgers are a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Polish cuisine to your table. With their juicy, well-seasoned patties and classic garnishes, these burgers are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a casual meal or at a barbecue, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try this recipe today and savor the delicious flavors of Polish Hamburgers!