Can you cook burgers in broth?

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Quick Answer

It is possible to cook burgers in broth, but it is not the most common or recommended method. Burgers are most often cooked on a grill or in a skillet where they can get a nice sear on the outside while cooking through on the inside. Cooking burgers in broth would result in a softer texture and less browned exterior. The broth may also dilute the flavor of the burger patties. However, braising burgers in broth is an option for those looking for a different texture and flavor. The broth could impart some seasoning to the burgers. Overall, searing patties first then simmering in broth could work but grilling, pan-frying or broiling would be better suited to getting that quintessential burger texture.

Looking at the Pros and Cons

There are some potential pros and cons to cooking burgers in broth versus more traditional cooking methods:

Pros:

The broth could impart some extra flavor into the burgers from the seasoning and ingredients in the liquid.
The burger patties may end up very moist and tender from braising in the broth.
If using a cooking method like a slow cooker, it requires minimal effort to let the burgers simmer in the broth.

Cons:

Burgers cooked in broth will likely be less browned and crispy on the outside without getting a good sear.
The broth may dilute the beefy flavor of the burgers.
The texture may be mushier and less meaty than burgers cooked by frying or grilling.

If the broth doesn’t have enough seasoning, the burgers could end up quite bland.

Choosing a Broth for Cooking Burgers

If you do want to try cooking burgers in broth, the type of broth you choose will impact the flavor. Here are some broth options to consider:

Beef broth – Using a rich, homemade beef broth can impart lots of savory beef flavor into burgers as they simmer.

Chicken broth – Chicken broth adds a lighter, more subtle flavor to burgers.
Vegetable broth – For vegetarian burgers, vegetable broth contributes flavor without meatiness.
Onion broth – Caramelized onion broth gives burgers an extra dose of umami and sweetness.

Mushroom broth – Earthy mushroom broth pairs well with meaty burgers.

Make sure to salt and season the broth to properly flavor the burgers. You can also add aromatics like garlic, onions, herbs or peppercorns to the broth to boost the flavor.

Best Cooking Methods for Burgers in Broth

These cooking methods allow burgers to simmer in broth to tenderize and add flavor:

Braising – Brown the burger patties first, then let them braise slowly in broth on the stovetop or in the oven.
Slow cooker – Place patties and broth in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-4 hours until tender.
Simmering – Gently simmer patties in broth on the stovetop for 20-30 minutes.

Poaching – Poach the patties in simmering broth on the stovetop.

For best flavor, try to sear or brown the burgers briefly before letting them simmer in broth. This helps develop that crusty, grilled flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these instructions for cooking juicy, flavorful burgers in broth:

Form ground beef or other meat into patties slightly thicker than normal, about 1/2 inch thick. Season the patties well with salt and pepper or other spices.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Transfer the patties to a Dutch oven or slow cooker. Add enough beef, chicken or vegetable broth to mostly cover the patties.

Add any aromatics like garlic, onions or herbs to the broth as desired.
Bring the broth to a gentle simmer on the stovetop. Or cook on low heat in a slow cooker for 2-4 hours.
Cook until the patties are cooked through and very tender, about 20-30 minutes simmering on the stovetop or 2-4 hours in a slow cooker.

Use tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the patties to a plate. Season additionally if desired.
If needed, reduce the broth slightly to thicken and increase the flavor. Pour some of the broth over the plated burgers.
Serve the broth-braised burgers warm, with toppings and sides as desired.

The burgers will be moist and infused with lots of flavor from the broth. Don’t overcook them or they may get mushy. Letting them simmer just long enough to cook through results in the best texture.

Tips and Variations

– Use 85% or 90% lean ground beef so the burgers don’t become greasy as they simmer in broth.

– Try mixing different ground meats like beef, pork and veal for deeper flavor.

– For a heartier dish, add vegetables like onions, carrots, mushrooms or cabbage to the broth.

– Stir in spices like garlic, thyme, rosemary, cumin or chili powder to flavor the broth and burgers.

– Thicken the broth with a roux, corn starch slurry or flour to make a nice gravy for serving.

– Garnish the burgers with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro or chives after cooking.

– Serve broth braised burgers on buns or over rice, mashed potatoes or pasta for soaking up the tasty broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to cook burgers in broth?

Yes, it is safe to cook burgers in broth as long as the patties are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F as measured by a food thermometer. The moist heat environment of simmering in broth makes it easy for the burgers to reach a safe temperature.

How long should you cook burgers in broth?

Cook burger patties gently simmering in broth for 20-30 minutes on the stovetop or 2-4 hours in a slow cooker set on low. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure they reach 160°F. Cooking time will vary based on thickness and doneness preference.

What broth is best for cooking burgers?

Beef and chicken broth work very well for braising burgers. For added flavor, use homemade stock or broth seasoned boldly with herbs, garlic, pepper and salt. Onion, mushroom or vegetable broth are also interesting options. Avoid broths that are too watery.

Will the broth soak into the burgers?

Yes, simmering burgers in broth allows the flavor to infuse into the meat, resulting in very moist and flavorful patties. Just avoid overcooking or the texture may become mushy. A brief sear before braising helps the burgers retain their texture.

Can you grill burgers after braising in broth?

It is possible to grill or broil burgers after braising them in broth first. This allows you to get nice char and caramelization on the outside of the patties. Just watch them carefully to avoid overcooking the already tender burgers.

The Bottom Line

Cooking burgers in broth results in a very different, moist and tender burger compared to typical grilling and pan-frying methods. The broth imparts lots of seasoning and savoriness into the burgers. While untraditional, braising, simmering or poaching burgers in well-seasoned broth can be a creative way to add flavor and moisture to burgers if you’re willing to sacrifice that nice sear. Pay close attention to cooking times to avoid overcooking. Serve broth braised burgers and plenty of the tasty broth for a satisfying, flavorful meal.