Pennsylvania Coal Region Barbecue Recipe

Ground beef: The base of the patties, providing a rich and hearty flavor.

Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tanginess to the mixture.

Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavor and adds depth to the patties.

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

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity to the dish.

Onion: Finely chopped to add texture and a subtle sweetness.

When forming the patties, make sure to handle the ground beef mixture gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can result in a tougher texture. Additionally, create a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps the patties cook more evenly and prevents them 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 a bit of sugar: This mixture mimics the tangy and sweet flavor of ketchup.

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

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

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a unique twist.

• onion, finely chopped - Substitute with shallots, finely chopped: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions.

• Allow the patties to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the wrapped patties in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, place the wrapped patties in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When freezing, ensure the patties are laid flat in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. Once frozen, you can stack them to save space.
• To reheat refrigerated patties, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen patties, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen by increasing the oven time to 20-25 minutes.
• If you prefer using a microwave, place the patties on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Always check the internal temperature of reheated patties to ensure they reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Serve the reheated patties with fresh buns and your favorite sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover patties on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover them with another piece of foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain the juiciness of the ground beef.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the patties in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until thoroughly warmed. This method is quick and helps maintain the flavor.

• Microwave Method: Place the patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the ground beef.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the patties in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on the grill and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method adds a nice charred flavor.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is efficient and helps retain the texture of the ground beef.

• Sous Vide Method: Preheat your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C). Place the patties in a vacuum-sealed bag or a ziplock bag using the water displacement method. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 30 minutes. This method ensures even reheating and retains the moisture and flavor of the ground beef.

• Grill: Used to cook the patties over medium-high heat, 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 they cook evenly on both sides.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the ketchup and ensuring the right balance of flavors.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper precisely.

• Knife: Needed for finely chopping the onion, ensuring it blends well with the ground beef mixture.

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

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

• Tongs: Useful for handling the patties on the grill, especially when flipping them.

• Thermometer: Optional but helpful for checking the internal temperature of the patties to ensure they are fully cooked.

Pre-mix ingredients: Combine the ground beef, ketchup, worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and onion in advance and store in the fridge.

Use a food processor: Finely chop the onion quickly using a food processor.

Form patties ahead: Shape the patties the night before and keep them refrigerated.

Preheat grill: Start preheating your grill while you prepare the patties to save time.

Batch cooking: Grill multiple patties at once to reduce overall cooking time.