Caramelized Onion Burgers

Did I mention that I'm back in school? Well, I was, for the last few days. Now we're jetting off again for a long weekend at the beach. I just can't let summer go. The pull of the sand and the ocean and the sun is a lot stronger than four hour lectures, sterile hospital halls, and funny smelling textbooks with tiny print. I'm excited for a new semester, but not ready to dive in (and not come up for air till mid-December) quite yet.

Most of the food I've been making reflects my undying love for summer. Burgers and salads and multiple dishes featuring the end of summer's bounty: zucchini, corn, tomatoes. Ah, the tomatoes. Many more tomatoes to come...

But about this burger. It's very simple. Very straightforward. Caramelized onions on an all-beef patty and sesame see bun (a homemade one!). I just improvised with the seasonings...threw in a few spices that would lend flavor and kick to the burger. Not much is necessary. I'm still taking advantage of the farmer's market, making special trips just to visit the beef stand. The local grass-fed cows provide the freshest, leanest, most wonderful meat. I've never tasted anything like it. And so suddenly hamburgers have new appeal.

With a heap of dark golden caramelized onions, you need nothing else. Don't you dare go near this burger with that ketchup. Keep your mustard at bay. You better not defile this burger with any such condiments. It is perfect as is. The sweet succulent onions, light buttery bun, and juicy grilled beef, are a trio that won't be messed with.

INGREDIENTS
1/2 lb. lean ground beef
dash of cayenne
dash of onion powder
dash of garlic powder
dash of paprika
salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 hamburger buns

For the caramelized onions:
2 large onions, thinly sliced (one large onion per burger)
1-2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil (I never really measure)
salt and freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS
1. In a bowl, sprinkle the ground beef with seasonings and mix with your hands to distribute the flavors throughout. Form the meat into a large ball, cover with plastic wrap, and return it to the fridge while you are caramelizing the onions.

2. Preheat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the unions are soft and caramelized, about 25-35 minutes. (The taste test works for me- if the onions are sweet and golden brown, they are ready!) Keep warm until ready to serve.

3. Preheat grill or indoor grill pan for high heat. Remove the meat from the fridge and form into patties. Grill for several minutes, until done (according to your preference). Place on a hamburger bun and top with warm caramelized onions.

Makes 2 burgers.

(Recipe my own.)