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Auplex Kamado: The Ultimate Guide to Grilling Burgers

Grilling burgers on a Auplex Kamado is a surefire way to achieve mouthwatering, juicy, and flavorful results. With its superior heat retention and versatility, the Auplex Kamado offers the perfect environment for grilling the ultimate burger. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to master the art of burger grilling on your Auplex Kamado.

1. Choosing the Right Meat
The foundation of a great burger is high-quality meat. Here’s what to consider:

 · Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a fat content of 80/20 (80% lean meat and 20% fat). This ratio ensures a juicy and flavorful burger. You can also experiment with ground chuck, brisket, or even a blend of different cuts for added depth.
 · Other Options: For those looking to mix things up, consider using ground turkey, chicken, lamb, or even plant-based options like Beyond Meat. Adjust cooking times accordingly for these alternatives.

2. Preparing the Patties
Perfectly prepared patties are key to a great burger:

 · Shape: Form your patties about ¾ to 1 inch thick, and make them slightly larger than your buns, as they’ll shrink during cooking.
 · Dimple: Press a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps the burger cook evenly and prevents it from puffing up in the middle.
 · Seasoning: Keep it simple with salt and pepper, or get creative with seasoning blends. Season the patties just before grilling to avoid drawing out moisture.
3. Setting Up Your Auplex Kamado
Proper setup of your Auplex Kamado ensures you get the perfect cook on your burgers:

 · Temperature: Preheat your Auplex Kamado to about 400°F (204°C) for direct grilling. This temperature is ideal for creating a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Grates: Ensure your grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. You can use a high smoke-point oil like canola or grapeseed.
 · Lid Position: Cook with the lid closed to maintain even heat and avoid flare-ups. The Auplex Kamado’s excellent insulation will help retain heat and moisture.

4. Grilling the Burgers
Follow these steps for perfectly grilled burgers:

 · Searing: Place the patties directly on the hot grill grates. Sear the burgers for 2-3 minutes per side to create a nice crust. Avoid pressing down on the patties, as this squeezes out juices.
 · Cooking Time: Cook the burgers for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness:
 · Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
 · Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
 · Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
 · Medium-Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
 · Well-Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
 · Cheese: If adding cheese, place it on the patties during the last minute of cooking. Close the lid to allow the cheese to melt evenly.
5. Toasting the Buns
While the burgers rest, toast the buns on the grill:

 · Method: Place the buns cut-side down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy. You can butter the buns beforehand for extra flavor.
 · Timing: Toasting should be done towards the end of the burger grilling process to ensure they’re warm and ready to serve.

6. Assembling the Perfect Burger
Now it’s time to build your ultimate burger:

 · Base: Start with a good bun, whether it’s a classic sesame seed, brioche, or potato bun.
 · Condiments: Spread your favorite condiments on the top and bottom buns—think ketchup, mustard, mayo, or aioli.
 · Toppings: Classic toppings include lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions. For something different, try grilled mushrooms, caramelized onions, avocado, or bacon.
 · Special Touches: Add a fried egg, jalapeños, or a unique sauce to take your burger to the next level.

7. Serving and Enjoying
Serve your burgers hot off the grill with your favorite sides, such as:

 · Fries: Classic French fries, sweet potato fries, or even grilled potato wedges.
 · Salad: A fresh, crisp salad pairs well with a juicy burger.
 · Grilled Veggies: Add some grilled veggies like corn on the cob or asparagus to round out the meal.
8. Tips and Tricks for Perfect Burgers
 · Resting: Allow the burgers to rest for a few minutes after grilling to redistribute the juices.
 · Experimenting: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different meats, seasonings, and toppings to find your perfect burger combination.
 · Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your burgers to ensure they’re cooked to your liking.
Conclusion
Grilling burgers on a Auplex Kamado is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. With the right meat, preparation, and grilling techniques, you can create burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time. Whether you’re grilling for a backyard BBQ or a casual weeknight dinner, these tips will help you achieve burger perfection on your Auplex Kamado.