There is a new trend in America and it has taken the culinary world and the internet rq. Why do backyard grillers and professional chefs talk about the same things? Why do burgers taste better and cook faster with cast iron skillets?
What is cast iron burgers? Why did the trend barbecuing burgers in iron skillets reach the peak of popularity? They answer all of these and more later on in the article.
The Phenomenon
The cast iron burger phenomenon is a trend in America where people cook burgers in a cast iron skillet. Skillet burgers has gained popularity shockingly fast with people not just in America but across the world. What is the hype around this? Skillet burgers is an absolute burger game changer as it allows people to cook a burger with a perfectly seared crust with a juicy flavorful interior. Something that cooks on a grill cannot achieve as grill cooked burgers on a grill leaves the interior dry and flavorless as the fat and juices are removed. Cast iron skillets are based on the same concept as a grill but they trap the fat and moisture. They are able to produce a burger with a perfectly seared crust on the outside and a juicy interior one hundred percent of the time.
Why Do Cast Iron Burgers Taste Better
1. Superior Heat Retention
Cast iron skillets retain heat unusually well. They hold a constant temperature and do not change until computation is removed. This allows them to maintain a steady temperature for even cooking and leaves a flawless sear.
2. Getting the Perfect Brown Crust (Maillard Reaction)
The surface of the cast iron is extremely hot and gets the maximum amount of contact with the burger patty. This encourages a the Maillard Reaction which is very beneficial for the food. This reaction causes deeper flavoring, better browning, and overall better aroma.
3. Keep Your Burgers Juicy
Since the juices do not drip out of the pan, the cast iron burgers become very tender and moist. The food also retains a richer flavor.
Cast Iron vs Grilling the American Way
The trend of home cooking in America is changing and more and more people are looking for the restaurant-quality food at home. Cast iron is very affordable and gets the job done so people do not need to buy expensive machinery.
Some of the most popular reasons in the USA:
- Can be used in all seasons (not weather dependent)
- Perfect for small spaces like apartments
- Convenient clean up
- More freedom for cooking and adding desired flavors
The Perfect Pairing of Smash Burgers and Cast Iron
Cast Iron Burger Phenomenon is due largely in part to the smash burgers. The goal is to take a ball of beef and smash it down on the cast iron skillet. This creates maximum surface contact for the beef which is very beneficial in cooking and provides ultra crispy edges.
This trend has become very popular in American food culture on places like food trucks, Instagram, TikTok cooking videos, and more.
Is it Healthier?
Yes, especially when the cast iron is used correctly.
- Seasoning your cast iron requires less oil as it has a natural non-stick surface.
- It cooks at a high temperature and preserves nutrients.
- It helps eliminate flare-ups and burnt residue that is usual with grilling.
Moreover, well-seasoned cast iron cookware has the potential to leach small amounts of iron into food, which can be a great benefit for some individuals.
Recommendations for the Best Cast Iron Burger at Home
To be among the best in the USA, here is the best advice:
- Choose 80/20 ground beef for the best preference of fat and flavor.
- Warm the skillet for a good 5 minutes to achieve the best results.
- Use the most basic, classic, and practical ingredients for seasoning of just salt and pepper.
- Flip the patty only once and avoid flipping too often.
- Use a slice of cheese, covering the skillet shortly after flipping for a small amount of time.
The Emergence of the Cast Iron “Burger” Trend
The Cast Iron Burger Phenomenon has no end in sight, as the USA is taking on food with the comfort of cult classics, and high-quality twist. Burgers cooked in cast iron are a great source of unbeatable flavor and variety.
Cast iron burgers are here to stay. The statement is clear, and true for home burger makers and professional chefs.