Tidal Wave

Surprise burger, originally uploaded by mud pie gourmet.

Remember that gum that had the liquid in the middle and when you first bit in it would come oozing into your mouth? I always wanted to get it until there was a rumor that it caused cancer. But then again, I have a theory that they are going to soon say that everything causes cancer. Another reason I always questioned those chips with olean in them. But, I digress...

With Memorial Day coming up I figured everyone would be deciding on their menus for BBQs. If you are in the D.C. area you definitely need to go downtown to see Rolling Thunder. It makes you appreciate those who have served our country--past and present. Rolling Thunder is the name for when some Vietnam Vets come rolling into town on their Harleys (all during Memorial Day weekend). My dad doesn't join them, though. He gave up his motorcycle when he married my mom. I think it is so touching to see these rough-looking guys standing at the Vietnam Memorial with tears streaming down their face.

Here is a DELICIOUS burger that has a middle that will surprise you just as that gum did and just how those rough-looking Harley guys do.

Surprise Burger
Serves 4

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste

Season the meat with salt and pepper and divide it into 4 large, fairly thick patties (leaving some extra meat to cover the indentation). Make an indentation in the center of each patty about 1 1/2 inches in diameter; fill with 2 tablespoons of one of the fillings (you can have your guests choose and do it themselves, if you want). Cover the filling with meat. Grill over moderate heat for 8 minutes on each side or till desired doneness. Serve on good buns.


Mexican Filling
Serves 4

1 onion, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 serrano pepper, minced, seeds removed for less heat if desired
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
6 oz Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, shredded

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a frying pan. Add onion, garlic and serrano pepper. Saute until tender about 8 minutes. Set aside to cool. Add the cilantro and cheese. Blend. Fill patty and grill as directed. We top with guacamole and blue chips, freshly sliced tomatoes and salsa. I have also left out the cheese in the inside and just added some to the top of the burger.

Italian Filling
Serves 4

3 T basil, finely chopped
3 T parmesean cheese, shredded
2 T sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1-2 T butter, softened

Combine all ingredients into a paste. Fill patty and grill as directed. Top with fresh tomatoes and lettuce.


Guacamole

2 Avocados, diced
1 tomato, seeded and chopped
1/2 onion, chopped (I have used just about every type of onion--so use your favorite)
1/2 serrano pepper, minced (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
juice of 1 lime

Combine all the ingredients and blend gently.