Black Truffle Hamburgers with Watercress Salad

Jeremiah Tower, chef and co-owner of San Francisco's legendary Stars, recommends using two truffles to flavor his indulgent burgers. To infuse the burgers with a deeper truffle flavor, refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before cooking.Plus: More Beef Recipes and Tips

Yield:
4

Ingredients

  • 1 pound coarsely ground sirloin (not extra-lean)

  • One to two 2-inch fresh black truffles, peeled and coarsely chopped

  • 2 teaspoons pure olive oil

  • Salt and freshly ground pepper

  • 4 English muffins, halved and toasted

  • 2 large bunches of watercress, tough stems discarded

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons untoasted walnut oil

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Directions

  1. In a bowl, gently combine the sirloin and truffle and shape into 4 thick burgers. Set the burgers on a plate, cover with plastic wrap and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.

  2. In a large heavy skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Season the burgers with salt and pepper and cook over high heat until browned, about 3 minutes per side for medium rare. Set the burgers on the toasted English muffins.

  3. Toss the watercress with the walnut oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper and serve with the burgers.

Suggested Pairing

This upscale burger needs a gutsy red with earthy, truffly flavors of its own.

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