Cuban-style Pork Burger with Maduros (fried, sweet plantains) and

Ingredients

Maduros (ripe plantains)

2 very ripe plantains, almost black
Cooking oil for frying
Pinch of salt

Mojo (Garlic-citrus sauce)

3 medium garlic cloves
2 sprigs fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 sprigs fresh oregano
1 lime, juiced
1/2 cup olive oil
Pinch of salt

Pork Patties

2 pounds ground pork
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup cracker meal (or finely crushed unsalted crackers)
2 garlic cloves, pressed
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh oregano
1/2 cup green olives stuffed with pimientos, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon kosher salt

3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil, for brushing on grill rack and brushing on bread buns
6 Cuban-bread buns, split (or 1 loaf of Cuban bread cut into 6 equal parts, split)
6 romaine lettuce leaves
6 slices of Havarti cheese

Instructions

Directions:

Preheat a gas grill to medium-high or prepare a medium-hot fire in charcoal grill with cover.

To make maduros: In a medium fireproof skillet, pour just enough oil to cover the bottom by ½ inch. When the grill is ready, set skillet on grill rack or grill side burner (if using gas grill). Peel the plantains and cut into thin, diagonal slices. Once oil in skillet is hot (a drop of water will sizzle), place the plantains and fry until toasted on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Sprinkle maduros lightly with salt. Set on paper lined plate until ready to assemble burger.

To make the mojo sauce: In a food processor, combine all ingredients until well blended. Pour in small bowl and set aside.

To make the pork patties: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients until well combined. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form into patties to fit the bun.

When the grill is ready, brush the grill rack with oil. Place the patties on the rack and cover. Grill patties for about 6-7 minutes per side, during the last minute of grilling place a slice of cheese on each patty.

To toast the buns: During the last minutes of grilling, lightly brush the cut-side of the buns with oil and place cut side down on the outer edges of the rack to toast lightly.

To assemble burgers: Drizzle a small amount of mojo on bun bottom, top with lettuce, place a patty, top with two to three maduros (sweet plantains), and drizzle mojo over top. Add the bun tops and serve. Que Delicioso!

Makes 6 burgers