The Ultimate Burger Toppings: What to Choose and Why

When it comes to the question of what’s best to put on your hamburger, the answer lies partly in personal preference and partly in the quality and freshness of the ingredients. While some folks prefer their burgers plain, others have a long list of toppings that they absolutely must have. In this guide, we’ll explore common and recommended burger toppings, share expert advice, and weigh in on our own preferences.

Common Burger Toppings

Burgers are a canvas for a wide range of toppings, and most people have their favorites. Here are some of the most popular and classic choices you might find on a burger:

Cheese Bacon Lettuce Tomato Mustard Ketchup Mayonnaise Relish Onions (raw or fried) Pickles Mushrooms Hot Peppers (raw or sauce) Pepperoni

But your burger toppings aren’t limited to just these! Some people even experiment with unique and unconventional items, which can be as tasty as they are surprising.

Deciding What’s Best for You

The decision of what goes on your burger ultimately comes down to personal taste. If you’re new to the world of burger toppings, the vast array of options might be overwhelming. However, with a bit of experimentation, you’ll likely find your perfect combination.

For those who prefer minimalism, a simple burger—salt, pepper, and a brioche bun—can still be delicious. However, many enjoy the indulgence of multiple toppings. Here’s a personal favorite:

Melted cheese (Cheddar, Red Leicester, or smoked gouda) Crispy bacon Lettuce Tomato Mayonnaise

Feel free to add pickles and banana peppers for an extra kick, though these may not be to everyone's liking. I always sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper on the tomato, and only add tomato in season to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.

Expert Advice and Recommendations

Anthony Bourdain, in his last episode of Destination Unknown, highlighted the 5 dishes every American should know, including the perfect cheeseburger. His recommendation is straightforward yet detailed:

Use a high-quality, fresh bun that can hold up to the juices (don’t let it turn into mush). Place the lettuce on top of the mayo. Add the burger patty next, then the cheese, followed by the onions, tomatoes, and pickles. Top with ketchup. Avoid fancy cheese like blue or Brie, as American cheese (the real kind, not the Kraft version) is ideal for a classic burger. For a unique twist, try a cheese and bacon burger, or even incorporate jalape?os for some heat.

Bourdain’s advice emphasizes the importance of simplicity and balance in your burger toppings. Not everyone will agree with these exact recommendations, but his focus on quality and freshness is spot on.

Our Personal Recipe and Suggestions

Here’s a quick recipe that combines a few of the best burger toppings:

Cheese (Cheddar or smoked gouda) Bacon Onions (raw or cooked) Pickles Dill A slice of tomato Mayonnaise Buttered bun (optional, for added flavor if grilled)

If you're adventurous, try buttering the bun, grilling it, and serving it with the toppings. This adds a delightful, crispy element that enhances the overall flavor of the burger.

Burger toppings are not just about satisfying your taste buds; they’re also about expressing your culinary preferences. Whether you prefer minimalism or a more robust top-to-bottom experience, the choice is yours. So, grab that bun, and get creative in the kitchen!