Introduction
Patty Melts with Charred Onions offer a delightful fusion of classic flavors and a touch of modern technique. This savory sandwich promises to elevate your weekend dining experience, thanks to its richly caramelized onions and perfectly melded ground beef blend. Perfect for gatherings or as an indulgent treat at home, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Tips for this Recipe
To ensure the best results with Patty Melts, it’s crucial to properly char your onions and achieve that crispy patty melt exterior. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before cooking for even browning. Handling the ground meat gently will prevent overworking, maintaining a tender texture in the final dish.
Why you will love this recipe
The combination of charred onions and melted cheese atop seasoned ground beef encapsulates an irresistible blend of textures and flavors. This Patty Melts with Charred Onions recipe caters to both comfort food enthusiasts seeking a satisfying meal and those looking for an innovative take on traditional sandwiches.
Ingredients
1 lb (500 g) ground chuck
1 lb (500 g) ground sirloin
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
12 slices rye bread
6 tablespoons (3 oz/90 g) unsalted butter, melted
2 sweet onions, thickly sliced
6 slices good-quality Swiss cheese such as Gruyère or Comté
Adviced Equipments
– Griddle Pan: For the perfect charred onion with a caramelized flavor.
– Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for making patty melts and ensuring a crispy exterior.
– Non-Stick Fry Pan: Prevents sticking during pan frying of patty melts.
– Electric Grill or Barbecue (e.g., Weber Electric Kettle Grill): Offers alternative methods for charring onions, providing versatility in cooking options.
– Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl: Useful for mixing ingredients before assembling patty melts; available from brands like Pyrex or OXO.
– Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Essential tools for preparing recipe components such as slicing cheese and vegetables. Wusthof Classic is a popular choice.
– Meat Slice or Fork: Ensures even slicing of meat before assembling patty melts; KitchenAid 24″ Tenderizer & Slicer is versatile.
– Butter Knife: For spreading butter on the griddle pan with high-quality options available in kitchenware sets.
– Mandoline Slicer (optional): Provides precise slicing of vegetables like onions or pickles for patty melts; Benriner’s is known for sharp blades and ease of use.
– Meat Thermometer: Verifies the doneness of meat, ensuring safe and enjoyable cooking; digital thermometers such as ThermoWorks Mini-Therm are recommended.
History of the Recipe
The humble patty melt has its roots in American diners during the early 1900s, originating from Germany’s Schnitzel Sandwiches and adapted to suit local tastes with grilled meat patties. Over time, variations of this dish have emerged across different cultures, but it wasn’t until chefs in modern times began experimenting with techniques like charring onions that Patty Melts with Charred Onions were born – a nod to both tradition and innovation.
Fun Facts about this Recipe
Did you know? The term “patty melt” can be traced back as far as the 1940s, but it gained popularity in American diners in the mid-20th century. A key aspect of a classic patty melt is its rustic charm – often featuring sliced onions and cheese directly underneath the meat layer for that extra gooey texture once grilled. While this version elevates it with charred onions, some purists argue it’s best enjoyed with simple seasoning to truly appreciate each element of this beloved sandwich.
