Classic Venison Burger Recipe

Classic Venison Burger Recipe

This recipe keeps it simple and lets the delicious flavor of venison shine through.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground venison
• 1/2 pound ground pork or beef fat (optional, for added moisture)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Hamburger buns
• Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, etc.)

Cooking Guide:

1. Prep: If using pork or beef fat, chop it roughly. In a large bowl, combine the venison and fat (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Mix Gently: Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the burgers tough.
3. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Form each portion into a patty that’s slightly larger in diameter than your hamburger bun. Make a dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help prevent them from puffing up in the middle while cooking.
4. Cook the Burgers: Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the burgers and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness (145°F for medium-rare).
5. Toast the Buns (Optional): While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a pan with a little butter for added flavor.
6. Assemble and Enjoy: Place the cooked burger patty on the toasted bun and add your favorite toppings. Devour!

Tips:

• Keep it Cold: Venison is a lean meat, so it’s important to keep it cold throughout the process to prevent browning. If you’re not forming the patties right away, refrigerate the venison mixture until ready to use.
• Don’t Overwork the Meat: As mentioned before, overworking the meat can lead to tough burgers. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
• Let the Burgers Rest: After cooking the burgers, let them rest on a plate for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy burger.
• Flavor Boosters: Want to add some extra flavor to your burgers? Here are a few ideas:
  • Mix in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard with the venison and seasonings.
  • Finely chop and saute some mushrooms or onions and add them to the burger mixture.
  • Crumble some blue cheese into the patties for a rich and decadent flavor.
• Cheese Selection: Since venison has a stronger flavor than beef, consider a bolder cheese like cheddar, blue cheese, or smoked gouda.

With these tips, you’ll be sure to grill up delicious and juicy classic venison burgers!