Many of us celebrate the May Long, as we call it in the Bay, by opening camp, pulling the trailer into the camp spot, going straight up camping or just sitting in the backyard.  It would be interesting to know just how many burgers are going to be grilled, flipped or smashed in the next three days.  

Beef, pork, chicken, veggies, fish or seeds, the versatility of this handheld is one of the reasons that it is loved by all.   Add in the fact that everyone can tailor their own burger into a masterpiece of their own desires, is a Mother’s dream come true.  Everyone is happy!  The classic toppings are tried and true:  bacon, onions, cheese, tomatoes, pickles, ketchup & mustard.   

This weekend, maybe try a twist?  Cream cheese blended with some jalapeño, spicy pepper jam and Brie cheese, or simply some banana peppers to please the spicy person in your life.   Use salmon instead of beef and top with a great mango salsa and creamy dill sauce.  Pulled pork with a great barbecue sauce topped with some creamy coleslaw all piled high on your burger brings your sandwich to a new level.   Literally and figuratively.   

I’m always a fan of the origin of foods, so of course here’s a bit of the burger history.  The name comes from the German port city of Hamburg. In the 18th and 19th centuries, “Hamburg steak” referred to minced or chopped beef that was seasoned, shaped into patties and cooked. German immigrants brought versions of this dish to North America, particularly through busy immigrant ports like New York City.

At the time, chopped beef was practical, tougher cuts of meat could be ground, it cooked quickly and it was relatively inexpensive.  By the late 1800s, “Hamburg steak” appeared on restaurant menus across the United States, usually served with gravy or onions.  There are many places that claim the invention of the handheld when someone decided to stick the meat inside a bun.   A big yay and thank you to whomever thought this was a good idea. 

Onions rings inside the bun, bacon jam, peanut butter and bacon, macaroni and cheese!  All yes!   You may find your new favourite May Long staple!

Here’s a classic burger meat recipe that makes my family happy – stays moist, stays together and tastes delicious cooked over a grill!  

Burger Recipe

• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder 
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ cup fine dry bread crumbs
• 1 cup mild salsa
• ½ cup bold bbq sauce 
• ½ cup fine diced onions

Mix all and form into the patty size you like, cook 6-8 min per side – heat to 160 degrees.