Introduction
Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a mouthwatering twist on the classic American hamburger, featuring crispy, golden-brown fried onions incorporated right into the patty.
The combination of juicy beef and the crispy, savory crunch of onions adds incredible flavor and texture, making this burger a beloved regional specialty.
These burgers are full of flavor, thanks to the rich beef patty paired with the sweet, caramelized onions that create a unique, unforgettable taste.
Whether served on a bun with your favorite toppings or enjoyed in its simplest form, the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is a must-try for any burger lover.
Origin
The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is said to have originated in the 1920s in Oklahoma, specifically in El Reno, a small town located southwest of Oklahoma City.
According to legend, the burger was first made by a local restaurant owner named Shelton, who was looking for a way to make a delicious and affordable burger using inexpensive ingredients.
By adding thinly sliced onions directly to the burger patty and frying them until crispy, he created a unique and flavorful burger that quickly became a local favorite.
This method of incorporating onions directly into the burger became known as the “Oklahoma Onion Burger,” and it’s now an iconic dish within the state and beyond.
Cultural Significance
The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is more than just a regional dish; it’s a piece of Oklahoma’s culinary history.
The burger is often considered the state’s unofficial burger, symbolizing the state’s deep-rooted love for hearty, comforting food. In fact, the Oklahoma Onion Burger is often associated with the working-class culture of the early 20th century, when meat and onions were inexpensive staples.
Today, this burger continues to hold cultural importance in Oklahoma, with several local diners and restaurants proudly serving their own variations of this dish.
It’s a perfect representation of Oklahoma’s resourcefulness and its love for great, flavorful food.
Ingredients and Quantities
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for making Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers:
For the burgers:
- 1 pound of ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter (for frying)
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably soft, toasted)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
For the onion mixture:
- 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup of buttermilk (for soaking the onions)
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Optional Additions
- Cheese: Try adding American cheese, cheddar, or Swiss for extra flavor.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon can be a delicious addition for a smoky contrast.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: For an earthy, savory flavor.
- BBQ sauce: For a tangy, sweet kick.
- Jalapeños: For some heat, if you like spicy food.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh, Thinly Sliced Onions: Thin slices of onion will cook quickly and become crispy. Fresh, high-quality onions, such as yellow or white onions, are ideal.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When forming the patties, handle the beef gently. Overworking the meat can result in tough burgers.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the onions (around 350°F). If the oil is too cold, the onions will become soggy.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly butter and toast the buns before assembling the burger to add extra flavor and prevent sogginess.
- Use a Spatula for Flattening: When cooking the patties, use a spatula to press down gently on the meat to create a crispy crust, which will help the onions caramelize into the patty.
- Fresh Toppings: While the fried onions are the star, adding fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, or pickles balances the richness and adds freshness.
Instructions
- Soak the Onions: In a bowl, soak the thinly sliced onions in buttermilk for about 15 minutes to soften and prepare them for frying.
- Prepare the Onion Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the soaked onions in the flour mixture, coating them evenly.
- Fry the Onions: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated onions until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Burger Patties: While the onions are frying, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and form each into a patty. Try not to overwork the meat.
- Cook the Patties: In the same skillet where you fried the onions, cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure the onions crisp up in the patty.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Place the cooked burger patty on the bottom bun and top with a generous amount of fried onions. Add any additional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve the burgers hot with your favorite sides, such as fries or coleslaw, and enjoy!
Description
Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a deliciously crispy, savory twist on the traditional hamburger.
The star of this burger is the crispy fried onions, which are both mixed into and piled on top of the beef patty, adding an irresistible crunch and rich flavor.
The tender, juicy beef pairs perfectly with the sweetness and earthiness of the onions, creating a balanced and satisfying burger.
The burger is simple, yet packed with flavor, and each bite is an explosion of textures—from the crisp onions to the juicy, tender beef patty.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 burger with toppings, no cheese):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 28g
Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the size of the patty, the type of bun, and any optional additions like cheese, bacon, or condiments.
Conclusion
Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a delicious, hearty meal that combines the best elements of a classic hamburger with the added crunch and flavor of crispy, caramelized onions.
This burger is simple to make but packs a ton of flavor, making it perfect for any burger lover who enjoys a bit of extra texture and savory goodness.
The use of fried onions and a juicy beef patty creates a memorable, satisfying burger that stands out from other variations.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional burger, the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is a must-try. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, family meals, or even a fun twist on a BBQ.
Serve it with your favorite sides like crispy fries, a salad, or homemade coleslaw for a truly indulgent meal.
Embrace the joy of healthful indulgence by enjoying a burger that is both hearty and flavorful, while also showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Oklahoma.