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The Ultimate Burger

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 29 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This ultimate beef burger recipe elevates the humble patty into a gourmet experience by focusing on the quality of the beef and a precise seasoning technique. By using skirt or sirloin flap steak and dry-brining the meat before mincing, you create a burger with an incredibly deep flavour and a juicy, tender texture that shop-bought versions simply cannot match.

As a high-protein main course, these burgers are perfect for weekend barbecues or a substantial family dinner. The method of rinsing the salt away before grinding ensures the meat is perfectly seasoned throughout without becoming tough. Serve these hand-formed patties on toasted homemade buns with crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, and traditional condiments for a classic British summertime treat.

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Ingredients for The Ultimate Burger

  • 1.1kg skirt steak or sirloin flap steak

  • Accompaniments: homemade burger buns

  • homemade ketchup

  • homemade mustard

  • homemade pickle relish

  • lettuce and tomato

How to make The Ultimate Burger

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Cut steak into 1 1/2-inch pieces and season with 5 1/2 teaspoons salt. Chill in a sealable bag 4 to 6 hours.

Rinse steak under cold water, then pat dry. Grind using a meat grinder with a 3/8-or 1/4-inch die or finely chop in a food processor. Form into 6 balls and flatten into patties about 1 inch thick and 4 inches in diameter. Chill until ready to grill.

Prepare grill for direct-heat cooking over medium-hot charcoal (medium-high heat for gas); see Grilling Procedure .

Season burgers with 1/4 teaspoons pepper (total). Lightly oil grill rack. Grill burgers, covered only if using a gas grill, turning once, about 5 minutes total for rare or 6 minutes for medium-rare. (Burgers will continue to cook slightly once removed from grill.)

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 29 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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