Unlock the Secret to the Ultimate Cheeseburger: Chef Stephen Parker's Frita Cubana Recipe!

Happy National Cheeseburger Day! What better way to celebrate than by diving into a mouthwatering recipe that takes the classic burger to a whole new level? Chef Stephen Parker from Black Tap in Miami has graciously shared his unique take on the cheeseburger, the Frita Cubana. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delectable delight!

Ingredients You'll Need

• 6 oz beef (75/25 blend)
• 6 oz ground pork
• 4 slices white American cheese
• ¼ cup finely diced white onion
• 2 Martin's potato rolls
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 cups mayo (preferably Kraft)
• 1 cup Goya sofrito (tomato flavor)
• 2 sticks of butter
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 bag of crispy potato straws

Preparation Steps

Creating the Burger Patties

To kick off this culinary adventure, start by combining the beef and pork in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to mix them loosely for that perfect texture. Divide the mixture into two equal parts, weighing 6 oz each. You can use a 4-inch round cookie cutter to form the patties, ensuring they’re about 1 inch thick.

Making the Sofrito Butter

In a blender, combine the Goya sofrito and softened butter. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this will add a rich flavor to your burger!

Preparing the Chile Paprika Aioli

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayo, chili powder, and paprika until all ingredients are fully combined. This aioli will elevate your burger with a kick of flavor!

Cooking the Burger

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat a sauté pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side to achieve a beautiful crust. While the burgers are cooking, toast the potato rolls until they are golden brown.

Assembling Your Masterpiece

Once the burgers are cooked, top each patty with 1 tablespoon of sofrito butter and two slices of American cheese. Place the burgers in the oven for 2 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.

Plating Your Burger

• Start with the bottom bun on your plate.
• Add the juicy burger patty topped with melted cheese.
• Layer crispy potato straws over the cheese for added crunch.
• Spread mayo on the top bun and sprinkle a teaspoon of diced onions along with a pinch of chopped parsley for that finishing touch.

Visit Black Tap for a Taste of Miami

If you're in the Miami area, make sure to stop by Black Tap for the authentic Frita Cubana experience! Here’s where you can find them:

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer
701 S Miami Ave Suite 408 A, Miami, FL 33131
Phone: (305) 813-0500
Visit their website

What do you think?

• Do you believe a cheeseburger can be elevated to gourmet status?
• What unique toppings do you think should be included in a perfect burger?
• Is it acceptable to mix beef and pork in a burger, or should they remain separate?
• How do you feel about using aioli instead of ketchup on burgers?
• What is your ultimate guilty pleasure burger combination?

We hope you try this incredible recipe and enjoy the celebration of cheeseburgers today!