Hamburger Imbottiti
By Lidia’s Kitchen presented by Marcangelo Foods
Even the Italians love hamburgers. But in the Italian culture it cannot be only about meat. The Italian meal needs to have balance, so the addition of a little veggie and a little cheese rounds out this meaty meal. For the record, the Italian- Mediterranean diet is the ideal diet because of its diversity and moderation.
Serves 6
INGREDIENTS
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped sundried tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 4 ounces low moisture mozzarella, cut in small cubes
- 6 large Basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sundried tomatoes, vinegar and salt. Mix the ingredients together with your hands to combine. Form into 6 equal sized balls.
In a small bowl, toss together the mozzarella and basil. Make an indentation in each ball and press in some of the mozzarella/basil mixture. Seal the mozzarella in and press to form patties, about an inch thick.
Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the patties and cook until cooked through and the cheese inside is melted, about 8 to 10 minutes in all. To check if the cheese has melted inside, stick a toothpick into the center; if the cheese has melted it will stick to the toothpick. Serve with the homemade ketchup on a bun or with a salad).
Grill variation:
Heat a grill to medium-high heat. Place formed burger patties on the grill and lower the flame to medium. Close the grill lid and let burgers cook for 2 minutes covered. Open lid and using a spatula, gently press down on the burger patty. Close lid again, and cook for another 2-3 minutes on first side.
Flip the burger to opposite side, and again close the lid. Continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes until a nice crust has formed on the burger, or to your temperature liking.
Need more culinary inspiration? Check out Lidia’s Kitchen, Sundays at 6pm/et!