Indonesian-style Burgers with Peanut Sauce
Gourmet, August 1997

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

6 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
3 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
4 teaspoons soy sauce
1 1/4 pounds ground chuck
2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander
2 teaspoons grated peeled fresh gingerroot
1/2 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes
4 sesame buns
4 soft-leafed lettuce leaves

In a small bowl stir together peanut butter, sour cream, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 2 teaspoons soy sauce until combined.

In a large bowl blend together ground chuck, remaining 2 teaspoons soy sauce, remaining tablespoon lime juice, coriander, gingerroot, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste until just combined. Form mixture into four 1-inch-thick patties. When forming patties, handle meat as little as possible for a juicier burger.

Prepare grill. Grill burgers on an oiled rack set 5 to 6 inches over glowing coals about 4 1/2 minutes on each side for well-done. (Alternatively, burgers may be cooked in a hot well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or ridged grill pan.) Toast sesame buns. Transfer burgers to buns and top with peanut sauce and lettuce.

Serves 4.