There's no doubt that dinner guests appreciate a "wow" spread. You know, like a grilled boneless leg of lamb served atop lemony-chickpea puree, and topped with a mache salad and golden raisin-caper salsa verde. I mean, I've done it. It knocks people out with its sophisticated and daring flavor combination. But there are a number of steps involved, it's not the most affordable spread to entertain with, and it does come across as a meal more appropriate for a special occasion.
But what I learned this weekend (and need to constantly remind myself of) is that casual food can be just as show-stopping. Just as "hold the phone, we need to talk about these burgers" kinda thing. Turns out, the combination of mayo, ketchup, and a little bit of chipotle in adobo can yield these results.
I kid. But not entirely.
Make this meal. Make it tonight. Make it this Saturday. Make it for that special someone. Or make it for an old friend. It is not to be passed off as low-brow or boring.
It is, in itself, a masterpiece of a meal.
Chipotle Turkey Meatloaf Burgers
Makes 6 burgers
1 pkg. ground turkey, 93% fat free
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves of garlic, grated
1 tbsp. chipotle in adobo
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp. salt
In a bowl, combine all ingredients until evenly incorporate. Be careful to not over-mix. Form into thin patties and cook over medium-high heat (a cast iron pan is strongly encouraged) for about 4 minutes per side. (I topped mine with slices of brie cheese and then covered the pan to melt. They were then transferred to potato buns and topped with baby arugula.)
Homemade Potato "Chips"
3-4 idaho potatoes
olive oil
melted butter
salt to taste
Preheat oven to 375F.
Thinly slice the potatoes (you may use a mandolin here, if need be) and place on non-stick cookie sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, toss to coat, and then season liberally with salt. Place in oven and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove from oven and flip the potato slices. Brush the other side with melted butter and return to oven for 7-8 minutes or until golden brown. Some will be crispy and crunchy and others will still have a soft, creamy center. Served with "special sauce" and you've entered another world.
"Special Sauce"
Combine mayonnaise with ketchup and as much or as little chipotle in adobo as you'd like. Do you realize how ridiculous this is? Christ.
