
 The Recipe with Kenji and Deb
 The Recipe with Kenji and Deb Burgers
 21 snips 
 Jun 9, 2025  Deb and Kenji dive into the juicy world of burgers, debating fast food favorites like In-N-Out and McDonald's. They unravel the intriguing history of the hamburger and discuss the evolution of smash burgers, highlighting cooking techniques for crispy perfection. A spotlight shines on sweet burger buns and their flavor contrasts, while the hosts share tips on exciting toppings and sauces. With a heartfelt announcement of a temporary hiatus for new projects, listeners are left craving more delicious insights. 
 AI Snips 
 Chapters 
 Books 
 Transcript 
 Episode notes 
Origins of the Modern Hamburger
- The hamburger's origins are debated, with early versions being smashed meatballs between bread.
- White Castle popularized the modern square bun burger in 1921 for ease of eating and hygiene.
Technique for Smash Burger
- Smash burgers require smashing a ball of beef on a hot griddle to create thin, crispy edges.
- Use a stiff spatula or meat pounder to smash, then a razor scraper to lift the patty.
Perfect Beef for Smash Burgers
- Use 80/20 ground beef for smash burgers to ensure fat renders and crisps well.
- Four-ounce patties balance crispy edges and ease of eating for the ideal single smash burger.




