Georgia Peach Burgers

by Graham Russell
@cookingwithcarrrl

National Burger Day falls during one of the most wonderful seasons of them all: Georgia Peach Season! These juicy treats are the gems of Georgia, and grilling peaches brings out a flavor that screams summer. Plus, when you pair them with blue cheese and deep fried onions?! You’ve got a block party of flavors that is sure to kick off summer in style. Let’s get that charcoal started!

Prep Time: 1 Hour
Cook Time: 15 Minutes
Servings: 4 Half Pound Burgers

Ingredients

Peach Burgers

2 Pounds Ground Beef
Fire & Flavor Burger Seasoning
½ Cup Blue Cheese
1 ½ Cup Arugula
2 Georgia Peaches
2 Tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar
1 Tablespoon Honey
4 Brioche Buns
Fire & Flavor Lump Charcoal

Fried Onions

2 White or Yellow Onions
2 Cups Buttermilk
1-2 Teaspoons Fire & Flavor Salmon Rub
½ Teaspoon Salt
3 Cups Flour
Enough Oil for Frying (Vegetable or Canola)

Directions

Slice onions very thin using a sharp knife or mandoline. Soak in buttermilk for 45 minutes to an hour. These can be made ahead of time. Preheat enough oil to submerge the onions – 375 degrees.

Mix flour, Salmon Rub, and salt. Using tongs, grab a bunch of onions and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Toss & roll them in the flour and shake off the excess. Drop them carefully into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to absorb extra oil.

Form 4 equal-shaped burgers and season one side with Fire & Flavor Burger Seasoning. Cooking the burgers over charcoal is a must. The added flavor of Fire & Flavor Hardwood Lump Charcoal is the perfect complement to this sweet and savory burger.

Cut peaches in half and remove pit. Slice into half-inch wedges (I do this for more grill/charred flavor). Whisk honey and balsamic together. Brush over the peaches.

Place burgers and peaches directly on your grill (direct heat). Flip peaches after 3-4 minutes & brush with honey/balsamic. Cook 2-3 minutes longer and place over indirect heat once nicely charred. Check burgers after 5 minutes and flip. Add blue cheese crumbles and remove burgers once melted.

Grill the buns. Toss arugula in a dash of the honey & balsamic mixture. Place arugula on the bun, burger, grilled peaches and then a healthy fistful of fried onions.

Smash down the top bun and take a bite! You’ll have Georgia On Your Mind in no time.