Forktionary

Hamburger Meat

Bos taurus Meat

Hamburger Meat Meat

At a Glance

  • Category Meat

The Forktionary Angle

"The quintessential protein foundation for countless comfort foods, offering versatility from classic burgers to flavorful chili and sauces."

Definition

Ground beef, typically from various cuts of cattle, used to form patties for hamburgers or as a versatile ingredient in many dishes.

Common Fat Ratios Typically 80/20 (lean/fat) for juicy burgers, 90/10 or leaner for healthier options.
Global Usage A staple in Western cuisine, particularly for burgers, meatballs, tacos, and casseroles.
Storage Life (Raw) 1-2 days in the refrigerator, up to 3-4 months frozen.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Hamburger Meat are:

Savory umami rich beefy. Flavor intensity varies with fat content

Chef’s Secret

To prevent dry burgers, mix in a tablespoon of grated onion or a splash of ice water per pound of meat before forming patties; it adds moisture and flavor.

Best Substitutes

Ground turkey

lighter flavor
Ratio 1:1

Ground pork

richer flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose based on desired fat content; 80/20 is ideal for burgers. Look for bright red color and no excess liquid.

Culinary Pairings

Buns cheese lettuce tomato onion pickles bacon barbecue sauce spices breadcrumbs

Recipes Using Hamburger Meat

Beef And Potato Empanadas With Salsa Picante image
Stove Top Time To Make Main Ingredient Finger Food

Beef And Potato Empanadas With Salsa Picante

A taste of Colombia! This family recipe for Beef and Potato Empanadas with Salsa Picante is a flavor explosion. Learn to make these savory pastries, bursting with tender beef, fluffy potatoes, and a fiery kick of homemade salsa picante. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this authentic Colombian dish is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready for a delicious journey!

See Complete Recipe
Award Winning Green Chili Stew image 110
Beef Main Dish Course Potatoes

Award Winning Green Chili Stew

This green chili stew recipe won a local "Super Stew" award, and it's easy to see why! Experience rich, savory flavors with tender potatoes and perfectly seasoned green chilies. This hearty, crowd-pleasing stew is perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. Get ready to savor the best green chili stew you'll ever taste!

See Complete Recipe
Ben Franklin Five And Dime Store Loose Meat Sandwich image
North American Preparation Main Ingredient 30 Minutes Or Less

Ben Franklin Five And Dime Store Loose Meat Sandwich

Step back in time to the 1960s and savor the taste of nostalgia with this iconic recipe! Inspired by the legendary Ben Franklin five-and-dime stores, this "Loose Meat Sandwich" recreates the beloved lunch counter classic that once cost a mere 23 1/2 cents. Imagine the bustling atmosphere, the swiveling stools, and the irresistible aroma of these mini sloppy joes. This recipe, passed down from a 1960s lunch counter waitress, delivers the same juicy, flavorful experience, now perfectly sized for your kitchen. Get ready to transport yourself back to a simpler time with each delicious bite!

See Complete Recipe
Beef Mexican Casserole Um Gala image 102
American Cheese Stove Top Beginner Cook

Beef Mexican Casserole Um Gala

A family favorite recipe passed down through generations! This hearty Beef Mexican Casserole, nicknamed "Um Gala" (because it's THAT good!), is a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a cozy night in. Tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce are layered between crispy tortilla chips for a dish that's both comforting and exciting. Easily customizable to your spice preference – add more Rotel for extra heat or substitute with diced tomatoes for a milder flavor. Get ready to hear "Mmm, golly, this is good!" from your family and friends.

See Complete Recipe