Smash Burger: Much more than a trend, a new way to enjoy burgers.
The smash burger is more than just a trendy name; it represents a new way to enjoy the classic hamburger. This innovative twist has led new generations to rediscover this famous Yankee sandwich. In a market that seemed saturated, the arrival of the smash burger has rekindled the interest of diners and gourmets alike.
What makes it different?
The key to this burger lies in the thickness of the meat. Its very name indicates it: "smash". Instead of being served with a thick disc of meat (the "patty" or "steak"), it is presented flattened, ultra-thin. It is cooked on a very hot griddle, where the meat is flattened with a press. The result is a thin, juicy hamburger with a crispy, caramelized crust.
The authentic American smash burger is served on a potato bun, a brioche bun made with potatoes. As for the side dishes, although there are no major novelties, there is a minimalist trend that prioritizes quality over quantity. Fewer ingredients and frills, but great care in their selection: matured meats or meats of guaranteed origin, homemade sauces and cheeses with designation of origin.
In short, it is a thin fillet burger, with few ingredients, but of high quality, which is less greasy and more digestive than its predecessors.
Why is it so addictive?
The real secret behind this delicious burger lies in a chemical process known as the Maillard reaction. You know that golden brown that appears when you cook a steak and makes it irresistibly succulent? That is precisely what we are looking for. This process occurs when the proteins and sugars in the meat are heated at high temperatures, creating a caramelized and crispy crust. Thanks to the Maillard reaction, aromatic compounds and complex flavors are generated that intensify the perception of umami. Thus, every bite of a smash burger becomes an explosion of flavors, thanks to this magical chemical transformation.
How about you?
Have you tried this kind of hamburgers? What do you think about them? Would you like us to make the recipe at Petitchef or write an article with all the secrets to make it at home? Tell us in the comments!
For now we leave you with some classic hamburger recipes. We hope you like them!
