Pennsylvania Coal Region Barbecue Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein for the dish, providing a rich and hearty base.

Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tanginess to the barbecue mixture.

Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the flavor with its savory and slightly tangy profile.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dish.

Onion: Provides a sweet and aromatic flavor that complements the beef.

When forming the patties, make sure to handle the ground beef mixture gently to avoid overworking it. Overworking can lead to tough burgers. Additionally, create a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps the burger cook evenly and prevents it from puffing up in the middle.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste mixed with vinegar and sugar: This combination mimics the tangy and sweet flavor of ketchup.

• worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce mixed with a dash of lemon juice and a pinch of sugar: This mixture provides a similar umami flavor with a hint of sweetness and acidity.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with additional depth of flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and can be used in the same quantity.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, making them a good substitute for onions.

• Allow the patties to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor.
• If you plan to consume the patties within a few days, store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the patties. Place the wrapped patties in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating and prevents the patties from becoming dry.
• Reheat the patties on the grill, in a skillet, or in the microwave until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
• Serve the reheated patties with fresh buns and your favorite sides for a delicious meal.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover patties on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
  3. Cover the patties with another piece of aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the patties are warmed through.
  5. For added flavor, brush a little ketchup or worcestershire sauce on top before reheating.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the patties on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If not fully heated, continue in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter.
  2. Place the patties in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  3. Heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.
  4. For extra moisture, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to the skillet and cover again.

• Grill Method:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Place the patties on the grill and cover.
  3. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.
  4. Brush with a little ketchup or worcestershire sauce for added flavor.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed through.
  4. Optionally, brush with a little ketchup or worcestershire sauce before reheating.

• Grill: Used to cook the patties to perfection, giving them a smoky flavor and charred exterior.

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ground beef, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and chopped onion.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties on the grill to ensure even cooking on both sides.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ketchup accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.

• Knife: Needed to chop the medium onion finely.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion.

• Plate: Used to hold the formed patties before they go on the grill.

• Tongs: Useful for placing the patties on the grill and removing them once cooked.

• Meat thermometer: Optional but helpful to ensure the patties are cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and measure out the ketchup, worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper ahead of time.

Use a grill press: A grill press can help cook the patties more evenly and quickly.

Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before you start cooking.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra patties for future meals.

Quick mix: Use a stand mixer to combine the ground beef mixture faster.