If you go out to a restaurant and order a gourmet burger, you are looking to pay upwards of $20 a piece. I find that insane! Especially when you could make this Bison Burgers with Pancetta Balsamic Jam at home for a fraction of the cost. Buffalo meat has gained popularity immensely in the last few years and is readily available at most supermarket. I love Bison because it is more lean than most ground beef and in my opinion has so much more flavor. Since there are a growing number of bison farms in Kentucky and around the country, it’s easier than ever to buy it locally. I prefer really flavorful cheeses, and another great thing about buffalo is that it pairs well with a stronger cheese without losing its own flavor. For this burger I decided to make a delicious savory jam to accompany it. The saltiness of the pancetta along with caramelized onions and balsamic vinegar is an amazing pairing with the Taleggio cheese. Add in the pretzel bun and this may be one of the best burgers that you’ve ever had!
- 1 lbs of ground bison
- 4 buns, any will do, but I used pretzel buns
- cheese of your choice
- 1/2 a medium onion, chopped
- 4 oz of cubed pancetta
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and Pepper
- Place a medium saute pan over medium heat, and render the pancetta until almost crispy, about 3 minutes. Add in the onion and saute until translucent, about another 3 minutes. Add Balsamic and brown sugar and simmer, reducing until a thick, jam-like consistency 3 minutes more.
- Divide the ground bison into four equal sections and form into 1/2 inch thick patties, making sure that they are slightly bigger in circumference than the buns. Generously season both sides of the patties with salt and freshly cracked pepper.
- Over medium-high heat, sear the bison patties for about 2 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
- Smear the pancetta jam on a toasted bun and top with lettuce, bison patty, and your favorite cheese. I used Taleggio and it was delish. Enjoy immediately!
Shellie Van Dolah
Tuesday 17th of November 2015
I live in Louisville as well and would love to purchase some Taleggio cheese. It is an incredibly delicious cheese for burgers. Your recipe looks fantastic and I cannot wait to try it out. Did you find your cheese locally?
Paige
Thursday 19th of November 2015
Hi, Shellie! I love taleggio so much, it's so pungent but so delicious! I bought mine at whole foods, but I'm pretty sure I have since seen it at Kroger as well since then.
Amanda Jane
Saturday 28th of February 2015
Wow, your work is so beautiful! I love the originality in your recipes! Have a wonderful weekend :)
Paige
Sunday 1st of March 2015
That is so sweet! Thank you so much! You have a lovely weekend as well :)