These beef patties are served in the French style, without buns. They are elevated hamburgers that are economical but wonderfully flavorful with seasoned ground beef, a crispy crust and served in a delicious sauce.
Onions:
2 T. butter
3/4 c. yellow onion, finely minced
Patties:
1 1/2 lb. lean ground beef
2 T. butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 t. salt
1/8 t. black pepper
1/8 t. thyme
1 egg
1/2 c. flour
1 T. butter
1 T. oil
Sauce:
choose one: 1/2 c. beef stock, beef bouillon, dry white wine, dry white vermouth, red wine, or 1/4 c. water
2-3 T. butter, at room temperature
2 T. green herbs, minced (parsley, chives, tarragon, or chervil)
Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 T. butter and onions; cook slowly until soft but not brown, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl; set aside.
Patties:
To the bowl, add the ground beef, 2 T. softened butter, salt, pepper, thyme, and egg. Beat vigorously with a wooden spoon until well mixed. Form mixture into patties, 3/4 inch thick; cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
When ready to cook, spread flour out on a plate; lightly roll patties in flour; shake off excess.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the 1 T. butter and oil; when it begins to foam and subside, sauté the patties to the desired temperature, about 2-3 minutes or more per side, depending on preferred doneness. Transfer patties to a platter; keep warm while making the sauce.
Sauce:
Discard fat from the skillet. Add preferred liquid, stock, wine, etc.); let boil, scraping up bits from bottom of skillet as it reduces. Cook down to almost a syrup consistency; turn off heat; add butter by 1/2 T. Swirl skillet to melt butter; stir in herbs.
Spoon sauce over hamburger patties.
Serve.
6 servings.