Grilled Teriyaki Hamburgers Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion
• 1 tablespoon plain panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
• 4 slices red onion
• 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce, diced onion, panko breadcrumbs, ginger paste (if using), garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until everything is combined.
2. Divide the mixture evenly into 4 portions, then shape and flatten each portion into a patty the size of your burger buns. Make an indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help the burgers cook evenly and avoid bulging in the middle.
3. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grill grate.
4. Toast the inside of the hamburger buns on the grill for about 1 minute, until golden brown. Grill the slices of red onion for about 5 minutes, until tender, then set aside.
5. Place the patties on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Brush the patties with teriyaki sauce while grilling. To check doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of a patty; it should read at least 160F (70C).
6. Once the burgers are cooked through, assemble by placing a patty on each toasted bun. Drizzle with a little extra teriyaki sauce, or serve the sauce on the side. Add any additional toppings you desire, then serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 514
• Total Fat: 22g (28% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (40% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 101mg (34% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1513mg (66% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 38g (14% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 39g (77% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 150mg (12% Daily Value)
• Iron: 6mg (32% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 624mg (13% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. The amount is based on available nutrient data.

Recipe by: Pat Bernitt

Introduction

Grilled Teriyaki Hamburgers are a delightful twist on the classic American burger, infusing the smoky, charred flavor of a traditional grilled hamburger with the sweet and savory notes of Japanese-inspired teriyaki sauce. This dish blends the rich, umami-packed flavor of teriyaki with the comfort of a well-cooked burger, offering a perfect balance of sweet and salty in every bite. Whether you're hosting a family barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, these teriyaki burgers are sure to impress.

History and Origins

Though the hamburger itself is widely considered an American creation, the concept of adding teriyaki sauce is a nod to Japan. Teriyaki, a cooking technique that involves glazing food with a soy-based sauce mixed with sugar, ginger, and garlic, has become a popular flavor profile worldwide. The fusion of this sauce with the iconic American hamburger is relatively recent, emerging as part of a broader trend of East-meets-West culinary experimentation. This burger variation gained popularity in the U.S. as people started seeking bold, new flavors beyond the traditional ketchup and mustard topping.

Regional Variations

In Japan, teriyaki is traditionally applied to grilled fish, chicken, and sometimes beef. The Grilled Teriyaki Hamburger, however, is more common in the United States, particularly in areas where international culinary influences are prevalent, such as on the West Coast. California, with its diverse food culture, was one of the first places where Asian-inspired burgers gained traction, and it's still a popular option in many restaurants and food trucks. While this burger variant is predominantly found in the U.S., it may occasionally appear in Japan in westernized restaurants.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

At first glance, the Grilled Teriyaki Hamburger might seem like just another gourmet burger. However, it differs significantly from traditional American burgers, which are typically served with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and cheese. The key distinction lies in the teriyaki sauceits sweet and salty profile adds an Asian flair that is unique to this dish. Additionally, the inclusion of ginger and garlic in the patty mixture gives it a savory, aromatic depth that is not found in the standard American burger. The Grilled Teriyaki Hamburger is also distinct for its use of sesame seed buns, a nod to the Japanese flavors that influence the dish.

Where It Is Typically Served

Grilled Teriyaki Hamburgers are often served in casual dining settings such as burger joints, food trucks, and backyard barbecues. They can also be found in fusion restaurants that specialize in combining American and Asian flavors. Whether at a summer cookout or a trendy caf, these burgers are a popular choice for those looking to experience a new take on the classic hamburger. The burgers can be served with a variety of sides, including fries, slaw, or grilled vegetables, making them a versatile meal option for many occasions.

Fun Facts

• The word "teriyaki" comes from the Japanese word "teri" (meaning shine) and "yaki" (meaning grill or broil), referring to the glossy glaze the sauce creates on grilled meats.
• Though teriyaki sauce is most commonly associated with chicken or fish, it pairs exceptionally well with beef, as seen in the Grilled Teriyaki Hamburger.
• In Japan, teriyaki burgers are sometimes served with pickled vegetables or wasabi, adding another layer of complexity to the dish's flavor profile.
• The Grilled Teriyaki Hamburger is a perfect example of how global culinary traditions continue to influence one another, giving rise to innovative and exciting food combinations.

FAQ about Grilled Teriyaki Hamburgers Recipe