Jamaican Jerk Burger

For the Jerk Marinade:

• 4 scallions, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers, seeds removed (use gloves), chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt to taste

For the Burger Patties:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly:

• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices
• Red onion slices
• Pineapple rings (optional)
• Mayonnaise, cheese or a creamy jerk sauce (optional)

Prepare the Jerk Marinade:

• In a food processor or blender, combine all the marinade ingredients and blend until smooth. Adjust salt to taste.

Marinate the Beef:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with about half of the jerk marinade. Mix well to incorporate the marinade into the meat. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting and sauce.
• Cover the bowl and let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for a more intense flavor.

Form and Cook the Patties:

• Divide the marinated ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Baste with the reserved jerk marinade occasionally for extra flavor.

Toast the Buns:

• While the patties are grilling, toast the burger buns on the grill for about 1 minute until they are lightly browned.

Assemble the Burgers:

• Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or creamy jerk sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
• Place a lettuce leaf on the bun, followed by the grilled jerk burger patty.
• Top the patty with tomato slices, red onion slices, and a pineapple ring if using.
• Spread a little more mayonnaise, cheese or creamy jerk sauce on the top half of the bun, and place it on top of the burger.

Serve:

• Serve the jerk burgers immediately with your favorite sides, such as sweet potato fries or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your flavorful Jamaican Jerk Burger!