Grilled Bulgogi Burger with Gochujang Mayo

Introduction

The Bulgogi Burger is a fusion of Korean BBQ flavors and classic burger elements. Ground beef is marinated in a traditional bulgogi sauce, creating a sweet, savory, and slightly smoky patty. Topped with grilled onions, crisp lettuce, and a spicy gochujang mayo, this burger is bursting with flavor. Grilling it on the Arteflame ensures a perfect sear and juicy center.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 4 burger buns
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Lettuce leaves
• Kimchi (optional, for topping)
• 1 tbsp butter (for grilling)

For the Bulgogi Marinade:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

For the Gochujang Mayo:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Light the Arteflame grill by placing vegetable oil-soaked napkins under stacked firewood. Let it burn for about 20 minutes. The center grate will be used to sear the burgers, and the outer flat top is perfect for grilling the buns and onions.

Step 2: Prepare the Bulgogi Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, gochujang, black pepper, and sesame seeds. Add the ground beef and mix until the beef is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Burger Patties

Divide the marinated beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾ inch thick.

Step 4: Grill the Onions

Melt butter on the outer flat top and grill the onion slices until they soften and become slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Move them to the side to keep warm.

Step 5: Grill the Bulgogi Burgers

Sear the patties on the hot center grate for about 3-4 minutes per side, creating a nice char. Move the burgers to the outer griddle to finish cooking until they reach your desired doneness. While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the buns on the outer flat top.

Step 6: Make the Gochujang Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, gochujang, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble the Bulgogi Burgers

Spread gochujang mayo on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the bulgogi patty. Top with grilled onions, and add kimchi for an extra punch of flavor. Cap the burger with the top bun.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the bulgogi burgers hot, with your favorite sides like fries or grilled vegetables.

Tips

• Marinate for flavor: Let the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the bulgogi flavors to soak into the meat.
• Use high heat: The center grate of the Arteflame is perfect for getting a nice char on the burgers without drying them out.

Variations

1. Spicy Bulgogi Burger: Add extra gochujang or top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
2. Bulgogi Pork Burger: Swap the ground beef for ground pork for a slightly richer flavor.
3. Bulgogi Mushroom Burger: Mix sautéed mushrooms into the beef or use portobello mushrooms as the burger base for a vegetarian option.
4. Cheesy Bulgogi Burger: Add a slice of melted cheddar or mozzarella to the burger for a creamy contrast.
5. Bulgogi Kimchi Burger: Add extra kimchi and some pickled daikon for a tangy, crunchy topping.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries: The sweetness of the fries complements the savory bulgogi flavors.
• Pickled vegetables: A side of pickled daikon or carrots adds a refreshing crunch.
• Kimchi slaw: A crunchy, spicy slaw made with kimchi adds texture and a bold flavor.

Conclusion

This Grilled Bulgogi Burger is the perfect fusion of Korean BBQ and American burger tradition. The sweet, savory bulgogi beef paired with the spicy gochujang mayo and grilled onions creates an unforgettable flavor combination, especially when grilled on the Arteflame.