smoked kajun burger

Ingredients:

For the Burger Patties:

– 4 high-quality beef patties (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio works well)
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Smoked Flavor:

– 1 cup wood chips (such as post oak, mesquite, or apple wood)
– Smoker or charcoal grill with smoker attachment

For the Cajun Aioli:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon grated garlic
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Toppings:

– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomatoes
– Red onions
– Pickles
– Melted pepper jack cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. Preheat your smoker to 225-250°F (110-120°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the burger patties.
4. Place the patties in the smoker and close the lid.
5. Smoke the patties for 30-40 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Aioli

1. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, hot sauce, scallions, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Refrigerate the aioli until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Burgers

1. Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
3. Spread a layer of Cajun aioli on the bottom bun.
4. Add a cooked patty, followed by your desired toppings (lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, pickles, and melted pepper jack cheese).
5. Top with the top bun.

Tips and Variations

– Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh beef and real mayonnaise.
– Adjust the level of heat in the Cajun aioli by adding more or less hot sauce.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for a unique flavor profile.
– Add some crispy bacon or caramelized onions to take the burger to the next level.