Spicy Jalapeno Burger w/ Garlic Crusted Eggplant Bun
Ingredients
For the burgers:
1poundground chuck or sirloin
1small oniondiced
salt & pepper to taste
For the topping:
1large oniondiced
3-4jalapeñosdiced - seeds & membranes discarded if you don't like the heat
2clovesgarlicminced
1tablespoonextra virgin olive oilbutter, or ghee
salt & pepper to taste
For the eggplant 'buns':
1eggplant with the diameter about the same size as you're planning on making your burgers
garlic powder
salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef & small diced onion. Season with salt & pepper. Form into 4 patties. Sear on each side on a grill or large skillet (I like to use a cast iron skillet) until they've reached the doneness you desire.
In a medium skillet, heat the oil, butter or ghee. Add the diced onion & jalapeño. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Sauté until the onions are translucent on medium-high heat. Add in the garlic & cook, while stirring, for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Heat a dry skillet, grill, or cast iron pan (I love cast iron!). Slice your eggplant into 1/4"-1/2" rounds. Blot each side dry with a paper towel. Season each side liberally with garlic powder. Season to taste with salt & pepper. Sear on a dry, hot skillet over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side.
Make your burger! Top the burger with the onion/jalapeno mixture & sandwich it between your eggplant 'bun'. Garnish it however you like. I like mayo on mine - since Im doing Whole30, I really love this chipotle mayo on this burger.