The Luxurious Side of Wagyu Brisket: Smoking, Slicing, and Savouring
Wagyu beef is synonymous with luxury in the culinary world, and while it’s often associated with high-end steaks like ribeye
Burgers are a universal favourite, offering comfort and satisfaction with every bite. But not all burgers are created equal. If you’re looking to take your burger game to the next level, there’s no better way than by incorporating Wagyu beef into the mix. Renowned for its rich texture, tenderness, and exceptional flavour, Wagyu beef transforms an ordinary burger into a luxurious culinary experience.
Wagyu beef is famous for its flavour, the streaks of fat dispersed throughout the meat that melts during cooking, delivering an incredibly juicy and flavourful bite. This quality makes it ideal for burgers, where the fat content helps keep the patty moist and tender without being greasy. The result is a burger that offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, with each bite delivering a richness and depth of flavour that’s unparalleled. Here’s how you can make sure your Wagyu burger lives up to its full potential.
The first step to crafting a great Wagyu burger is selecting the right type of Wagyu beef. Depending on availability and your budget, you can opt for different grades and origins of Wagyu beef, including Japanese A5 (the highest grade), American Wagyu, or Australian Wagyu. Each type has its own unique characteristics, but they all offer superior flavour compared to conventional beef.
When it comes to burgers, minced Wagyu beef is typically preferred over Wagyu steak, as the minced version allows for more uniform cooking and is easier to form into patties. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, some burger enthusiasts minced their own Wagyu from specific cuts like ribeye or chuck to control the fat content and create a bespoke burger experience.
For the best results, look for minced Wagyu beef with a fat content of around 20%. This ratio strikes the perfect balance between rich flavour and a tender, juicy patty.
Once you have your Wagyu beef, it’s time to prepare the patties. Wagyu beef is more delicate than regular minced beef, so it’s important to handle it with care.
When forming your patties, keep in mind that less handling is better. Overworking the meat can result in a dense, tough burger. Gently shape the meat into patties that are about ¾ to 1 inch thick, which will help them cook evenly and retain moisture.
Make sure to create a slight indentation in the centre of each patty using your thumb. This will help prevent the burger from puffing up in the middle as it cooks, ensuring a flat, even patty.
Wagyu beef’s flavour is naturally rich, so heavy seasoning isn’t necessary. A simple sprinkle of coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper is all you need to bring out the best in the beef. Apply the seasoning just before cooking to avoid drawing out too much moisture from the meat.
Wagyu beef requires a slightly different approach to cooking compared to regular beef, primarily because of its higher fat content. Whether you prefer grilling or cooking on a cast-iron skillet, the goal is to get a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness. For Wagyu beef, medium-rare to medium (an internal temperature of 55°C to 60°C) is ideal. This allows the fat to melt and infuse the meat without overcooking it.
Cooking Wagyu burgers in a cast-iron skillet is another great option, especially if you want to achieve a perfect crust on the outside. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and avoid adding any additional oil. As 100% Wagyu patties contain a high amount of fat with a low melting point (27°C-35°C), they will release their own rich oils as they cook. This Wagyu fat creates a generous sear and adds flavour without the need of extra oil. Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes per side, flipping once to ensure an even sear.
If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers, now is the time to add a slice of your favourite cheese (more on toppings later). After flipping the patty, place the cheese on top and cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking to melt the cheese perfectly.
Brioche buns are a popular choice for Wagyu burgers, thanks to their buttery flavour and soft yet sturdy texture. The slight sweetness of a brioche bun complements the richness of the Wagyu beef, and its soft crumb is perfect for soaking up the juices without becoming soggy.
To enhance the experience, lightly toast the buns before assembling your burger. This adds a nice crunch and prevents the bun from becoming too soft.
When it comes to toppings, Wagyu burgers are best paired with high-quality ingredients that enhance, rather than overpower, the flavour of the beef. Here are some ideal toppings and condiments to complement your Wagyu burger:
Cheese is an essential topping for many burger lovers, and Wagyu burgers are no exception. Choose a cheese that melts well and has a bold flavour, such as sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or blue cheese. These options add a touch of richness and complexity without overshadowing the beef’s natural flavour.
Crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onions are classic burger toppings that add freshness and texture to your Wagyu burger. Arugula is also a great choice, as its peppery flavour pairs well with the richness of the beef.
When it comes to sauces, keep it simple. A light spread of mayo, Dijon mustard, or aioli can add just the right amount of creaminess without overwhelming the Wagyu flavour. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, a touch of caramelised onions or a balsamic glaze can enhance the flavour profile.
By selecting the right cut of meat, cooking it to perfection, and choosing thoughtful toppings and accompaniments, you can create a burger experience that’s truly exceptional. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests at a backyard BBQ, a Wagyu burger offers a rich, flavourful, and unforgettable dining experience. Explore our premium cuts of Wagyu on our website and create your ultimate burger today.
Wagyu beef is synonymous with luxury in the culinary world, and while it’s often associated with high-end steaks like ribeye
Wagyu beef, celebrated for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavour, is a premium delicacy that deserves careful preservation to
