I love burgers. To me, a good burger checks all the boxes of a satisfying, savory meal, while simultaneously offering both opportunity and variety. Somehow, even mediocre burgers almost always manage to blend bread, beef, cheese, and toppings (whatever they may be) in a way that lets each ingredient shine. And without compromise, a burger can lean in so many different directions, serving as a vehicle for diverse combinations of toppings and condiments. Pair a good one with fries and a shake and you have a meal of infinite possibilities and immense satisfaction. Burgers are the great American food, and my friend Josh and I are going to tour the Salt Lake Valley hunting down the best ones and sharing our discoveries with you.
But what makes a great burger? It starts with the patty. The beef chuck is the heart and soul of any burger. All the toppings in the world can’t cover up bad beef. Whether it’s grilled, smoked, flame broiled, or pan fried, a patty makes or breaks the burger; good beef is not overcooked, but fresh and tastefully seasoned so as to let the true meat flavor shine*. Cheese should be melty and strong, and buns should be fluffy. Toppings and condiments are the wild card, but if there are veggies, let them be fresh, and if there are creative combinations, let them blend flavorfully. I appreciate a creative burger just as much as a classic one. Burgers are like my children: while some may be greater than others, all have value**.
As for fries, there are so many different styles, but to me a good french fry is more than just a vehicle for salt and ketchup or fry sauce. Potatoes are good, and an ideal fry should use that as a strength. Fries can be soft but shouldn’t be soggy. We enjoy thin and medium style, and a thick fry with just the right amount of crispiness and salt is sublime.
Finally, it’s hardly burgers and fries without a shake for dessert. Thick or thin, a shake is more than just ice cream and more than flavored milk. Good texture and flavor, but not too much sweetness--that’s what we look for. We’re excited to begin this journey. Together, we’re going to find the best burgers in the Salt Lake Valley. Let’s get cookin’!
*Worry not, my vegetarian friends. I can enjoy a good meatless burger, and we’ll be including those in our record as well.
**Note: I do not actually have any children.
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