Maple Dijon Elk Burger
This Maple Dijon Elk Burger combines tender ground elk with the sweet depth of pure maple syrup and the sharp tang of Dijon mustard. It’s a refined burger experience that celebrates wild game flavors with a modern twist.
Ingredients
For the Elk Patties
- 1 lb ground elk approx. 1 lb, preferably fresh and grass-fed
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp finely chopped onion or 1/2 tbsp onion powder
For the Maple Dijon Sauce
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup preferably Grade A, Canadian
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise to add creaminess
For Assembly
- 4 medium burger buns brioche or whole wheat
- 4 leaves lettuce
- 4 slices tomato ripe, thick-cut
- 4 slices red onion optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Elk Patties (Prep time: 0 hours 15 minutes): Combine ground elk, salt, black pepper, and chopped onion in a bowl. Gently mix by hand until evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat. Form into 4 equal-sized patties, about 2 cm (3/4 inch) thick.
- Make the Maple Dijon Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as desired.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: If using a grill, preheat to medium-high heat, around 200°C (400°F). If using a skillet, warm it over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Elk Patties (Cook time: 0 hours 10 minutes): Place patties on the grill or in the heated skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until they reach desired doneness, typically 60–65°C (140–150°F) internal temperature for medium.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a layer of the Maple Dijon sauce on each bun half. Add a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, and red onion. Place the elk patty on top, followed by more sauce if desired.
Notes
Chef’s Tips:
- To keep the elk patties juicy, avoid overcooking.
- For a deeper caramelized crust, brush each patty with a bit of maple syrup during the last minute of cooking.
- Substitute ground venison or bison if elk is unavailable.
Nutrition
Calories: 381kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 76mgSodium: 951mgPotassium: 549mgFiber: 2gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 272IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 98mgIron: 5mg
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