A Michelin-starred chef has revealed a simple ingredient that can transform ordinary burger patties into juicy, restaurant-quality perfection for your BBQs. Tom Shepherd, a Birmingham-based chef who has cooked for royalty and won the main course round on the BBC's Great British Menu in 2023, shared his expert advice on achieving the perfect burger.
The Secret Ingredient: Fat
According to Shepherd, the key to a succulent burger is not a complex spice blend or a special cooking technique, but rather the addition of fat to the meat mixture. He recommends a ratio of 75% minced meat to 25% fat. Shepherd advises home cooks to obtain minced beef fat from their butcher and incorporate it into the burger mixture.
"When purchasing beef mince, always choose 100% beef. A small amount of fat is beneficial, and you can add your own to keep the meat juicy," Shepherd said. "If I were making beef burgers at home, I would use a mix of 75% minced meat to 25% fat. I recommend getting minced beef fat from the butcher to incorporate into the burger mixture."
Why Fat Makes Burgers Juicier
Fat acts as both a lubricant and a source of moisture during cooking. As the meat fibres tighten and expel water, the fat melts (renders), basting the meat from within. This process not only keeps the burger moist but also enhances its flavour significantly. For those working with lean meat, manually incorporating fat can improve texture. Many home cooks and restaurants blend in cold or melted butter to produce a richer, "extra juicy" result, while professional butchers often mix in pure beef fat (tallow) to achieve a precise fat percentage.
Shepherd also suggests an alternative approach: "Alternatively, you can buy a nice sirloin or ribeye steak from your butcher or supermarket, mince it yourself or, if you don't have a mincer, chop it into tiny pieces and mix it with a good amount of seasoning."
Cooking Tips for Perfect Patties
Beyond the meat mixture, Shepherd emphasises proper cooking technique. "To cook the burger, sear both sides to achieve an even crust. It's essential to let the burger rest both before and after cooking," he said. Additionally, chilling the patties for approximately 30 minutes before cooking allows the fat to firm up slightly, delivering a more succulent texture once cooked.
Customising Your Burger
Once you have the perfect patty, the possibilities for toppings are endless. For a classic burger, use cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion and pickles with ketchup, mustard or mayo. For a BBQ-style burger, try smoky BBQ sauce with bacon and crispy onions or even an onion ring, and add jalapeños for heat. For a gourmet touch, caramelised onions work well with fried mushrooms and a stronger cheese like blue cheese, and a fried egg on top makes it extra indulgent. For a fresher bite, coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, while pickled red onions or a spoonful of salsa can cut through the richness.
Shepherd, who boasts over 40,000 followers on Instagram, has cooked for Prince William and triumphed in the main course round on the BBC's Great British Menu in 2023. His advice is simple: don't be afraid of fat. It's the secret to a truly juicy burger.
