Grilled Hamburguesa Mexicana with Guacamole and Chipotle Mayo

Introduction

This Hamburguesa Mexicana brings the flavors of Mexico to a juicy burger, featuring toppings like melted queso fresco, fresh guacamole, grilled jalapeños, and a spicy chipotle mayo. Grilled on the Arteflame, this burger gets a perfect char while keeping the meat juicy and tender, paired with traditional Mexican flavors for an exciting twist.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 4 brioche or burger buns
• 4 slices queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese
• 1 fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 lime (for guacamole)
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chipotle Mayo:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
• 1 tsp lime juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Light your Arteflame grill by stacking firewood over vegetable oil-soaked napkins and letting it burn for about 20 minutes. Use the center grate for searing the burger patties and the outer flat top for grilling the jalapeños and toasting the buns.

Step 2: Shape the Burger Patties

Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Jalapeños and Onions

Melt butter on the flat top griddle and grill the sliced jalapeños and onions until softened and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. Set them aside to keep warm.

Step 4: Grill the Burgers

Place the burger patties on the hot center grate and sear for 3-4 minutes per side to develop a nice crust. Move the patties to the outer flat top and place a slice of queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese on top of each patty. Let the cheese melt while the burgers finish cooking to your desired doneness.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Butter the brioche buns and place them on the outer flat top for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Make the Chipotle Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 7: Make the Guacamole

Mash the ripe avocado with lime juice, fresh cilantro, and a pinch of salt to create a simple guacamole.

Step 8: Assemble the Hamburguesa Mexicana

Spread chipotle mayo on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a spoonful of guacamole on the bottom bun, followed by a lettuce leaf. Add the burger patty with melted cheese, then top with grilled jalapeños and onions. Cap with the top bun.

Step 9: Serve

Serve the Hamburguesa Mexicana hot, with a side of chips, salsa, or grilled corn for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

Tips

• High heat for searing: Use the center grate for a good char on the burgers without overcooking the inside.
• Queso fresco: This mild, crumbly cheese melts beautifully over the burger and adds an authentic Mexican flavor.

Variations

1. Bacon Guacamole Burger: Add crispy bacon for a smoky, salty contrast to the creamy guacamole.
2. Taco Burger: Swap the chipotle mayo for taco seasoning, and add crumbled tortilla chips for crunch.
3. Pineapple Salsa Burger: Top the burger with a fresh pineapple salsa for a sweet and tangy kick.
4. Chorizo Burger: Mix ground chorizo into the beef for extra spice and flavor.
5. Vegetarian Mexicana Burger: Use a black bean burger patty with the same Mexican toppings for a meatless option.

Best pairings

• Chips and salsa: A classic side that complements the bold flavors of the burger.
• Elote (grilled corn): Grilled corn with cotija cheese and chili powder is a perfect match for the spicy, smoky burger.
• Sweet potato fries: The sweetness of the fries balances the heat from the jalapeños and chipotle mayo.

Conclusion

The Grilled Hamburguesa Mexicana combines the smoky flavors of the grill with classic Mexican ingredients like guacamole, grilled jalapeños, and queso fresco. This burger is perfect for a flavorful, spicy twist on a traditional burger.