IRISH BEEF STEAK BURGERS WITH STICKY ONION MARMALADE

INGREDIENTS

(Serves 4) For the steak burger: 700g Irish chuck or flank steak, very finely minced; 4 tbsp grated onion; 2 garlic cloves, finely grated; 4 tbsp very finely chopped spring onions; 4 tbsp beaten egg

To serve: 4 ciabatta buns, split in half; 4 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 little gem lettuce, trimmed and broken into leaves; 4 square slices vintage Cheddar cheese; 1 onion, sliced into thin rings; 4 heaped tbsp onion marmalade; sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper

METHOD

1. To make the burgers, place the minced beef in a bowl with the onion, garlic, spring onions and egg. Mix well and season to taste, then shape into 4 even-sized patties. Cover and chill until needed.

2. If using a charcoal barbecue, light it 30 minutes before you want to start cooking. If using a gas barbecue, light it 10 minutes beforehand. Alternatively, use a large frying pan. If using a frying pan, place over a high heat until very hot. 3. Sear the burgers for 2 minutes on each side, then cook for another 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare or longer if you prefer your burgers more well done. Remove and leave to rest for a few minutes.

4. Toast the cut sides of the ciabatta buns until lightly charred and smear the bottom of each with mayonnaise, followed by the lettuce, a slice of Cheddar cheese and onion rings. Top each one with a burger and put on warmed plates. Add a serving of the onion marmalade to each one, then place the top half of the bun on top to serve.

■ Recipe from Bord Bia