Cherry Burgers

Cherries add a lightly sweet flavor component to burgers and boosts them with a little extra nutrition. This burger is similar to the Plevalean burger created in 1988 by Ray Pleva of Pleva’s Meats in Cedar.

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup dried cherries, finely chopped
1/4 cup gluten-free or wheat breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Smoked gouda slices (or plain cheddar cheese is also good)
Griddled onions:
1 large yellow, white, or red onion
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 burger buns

1. If you are making griddled onions, start this first. Slice the onion evenly and sauté in olive oil over medium heat until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
2. Preheat a grill to medium.
3. Place beef in a large bowl and gently mix in the cherries, breadcrumbs, and seasonings until well combined. Divide into 4 equal portions and form into 1/2-inch-thick patties.
4. Oil the grill rack. Grill the patties until browned, 3-4 minutes per side, or cooked to your liking. After flipping the burgers, place gouda cheese slices on top of them and close the grill until cooked. Assemble the burgers on the buns with a pile of onions and your favorite toppings and garnishes.