There are a few foods that could be considered an “Art Form”, sushi, bread, soups to mention a few.  There is one that seems to be in almost every household- The Almighty Burger….often the muse of the head Grill Master.  Not every family has a Grill Master, but I bet most do.  In our case, my husband Wes is definitely holding this position. As the Head Grill Master, he doesn’t take this title lightly; every meal that come off his grill is in fact a piece of art.

Wes has recently taken to grinding his own meats, so he can consider the ratio of fat to meat, the toughness of the cut, freshness of product, and type of meat, be it farm raised, local or organic or even the best deal of the week.  For real… he is in knee deep with developing the “absolute” burger.  In the meantime, we are eating superbly!

One of his recent expeditions I was able to capture a recipe, and even add to it with a fresh made bun and slaw.

Chicken Burgers

• 1- 3 pound whole chicken, deboned and ground
• or
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 4 teaspoons fresh sliced jalapeño
• 2 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
• 4 teaspoon favorite all-purpose seasoning
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground ginger
• 4 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Combine all of the ingredients and mix well.  Allow the mixture to sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to blend.  Preheat your grill or prepare your charcoal while scooping 8 -½ cup (4 oz) portions and form patties.  When your grill is hot, cook burgers until they reach the safe temperature of 165.   Serve and enjoy!

The chicken burger was packed with flavor, and very juicy.  So often burgers made with poultry tend to be dry, but he balanced the breast meat, thigh meat and skin perfectly.

While Wes was preparing his inspired burgers and the dough for my buns was rising, I took to creating a salad to top the patties.  I love the crunch of a slaw on sandwiches, the texture and acidity adds a great depth.

Ginger Slaw

Dressing

• Juice of ½ lime
• 2 teaspoon orange juice
• 2 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Slaw

• 2 cups sliced cabbage
• 3 tablespoons julienned carrots
• 3 tablespoon sliced celery
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground ginger

In a small bowl, add the ingredients for the dressing and stir together until creamy.  Combine raw ingredients in a mixing bowl, add the dressing and toss well.

As in most art forms, the artist is rarely satisfied, but his fans are often thrilled and overwhelmed.  So while Wes continues on his search to find the “absolute” burger, and carries his reign as Grill Master, I will sit back and enjoy his artwork!

I’d say this Grill Master is truly an Artist!