Savory Western Bison Burger with Crispy Onions and Whisky Mayo

When was the last time you bit into a burger so juicy and flavorful that it made you rethink your idea of what a burger could be? If you’re ready to elevate your grilling game and indulge in something truly unique, let me introduce you to the Western Bison Burger with Crispy Onions and Whisky Mayo. This burger isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The tender, slightly sweet taste of bison, paired with crispy fried onions and a bold, smoky whisky mayo, creates a flavor combination that’s as unforgettable as it is satisfying.

Choosing bison isn’t just about taste; it’s also a healthier and more environmentally friendly alternative to beef. Bison is lower in fat and calories while still being packed with protein and essential nutrients. This burger is perfect for family barbecues, weekend gatherings, or even a treat-yourself night at home.

Discover more mouth-watering recipes in our Lunch Category!

Why Choose Bison? Health Benefits and Sustainability

A Healthier Choice: Nutritional Benefits of Bison Meat

Bison is rapidly gaining popularity among health-conscious meat lovers, and it’s easy to see why. Compared to beef, bison meat is leaner, lower in calories, and has a unique flavor that is less gamey than other red meats. Here’s why bison is a healthier choice:

• Lower in Fat: Bison has about 25% less fat than beef, which means fewer calories per ounce.
• Rich in Protein: Like beef, bison is an excellent source of protein, helping to build and repair muscle.
• Packed with Nutrients: Bison is high in iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy and immune health.

For those who want to enjoy red meat without the high fat and cholesterol content, bison is a fantastic alternative. Plus, it offers a slightly sweet, mild flavor that pairs perfectly with a range of seasonings and toppings.

Environmentally Friendly Meat Option

Bison is also a more sustainable option than beef. Most bison are raised on grasslands and are pasture-fed, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with their production. This type of farming allows bison to graze naturally, and it often requires fewer resources than industrial cattle farming. For those who care about sustainability and the environment, choosing bison is a responsible and delicious choice.

Essential Ingredients for the Ultimate Western Bison Burger

To create a burger that’s as flavorful as it is memorable, each ingredient in this recipe has been carefully chosen to enhance the natural taste of bison. Here’s what you’ll need:

Each ingredient has a purpose, from the seasonings in the bison patty to the whisky mayo that enhances the burger’s flavor. Together, they create a balanced burger that’s juicy, savory, and layered with flavor.

How to Make a Western Bison Burger: Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make an unforgettable burger? Follow these steps to create the ultimate Western Bison Burger with Crispy Onions and Whisky Mayo.

Step 1: Season and Shape the Bison Patties

• Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This seasoning mix adds a smoky, slightly spicy depth to the bison patty.
• Season the Bison Meat: Add the seasoning mixture to the ground bison. Gently mix the meat and seasoning with your hands until well incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
• Shape the Patties: Divide the seasoned bison meat into four equal portions and shape each into a patty. Place the patties in the refrigerator to chill for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Fried Onions

• Soak the Onions in Buttermilk: Thinly slice the onion and soak the slices in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. The buttermilk adds a slight tang and helps the flour stick to the onions.
• Dredge the Onions in Flour: In a shallow bowl, add the all-purpose flour. Remove the onions from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off, then dredge them in flour until fully coated.
• Fry the Onions: Heat a skillet with a layer of oil over medium heat. Fry the onions in batches until golden and crispy. Place the fried onions on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Whisky Mayo

• Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and whisky. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix until smooth. This smoky, creamy sauce adds a unique flavor that perfectly complements the bison.

Step 4: Cook the Bison Patties

• Preheat the Grill or Skillet: Set your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Bison is leaner than beef, so it cooks quickly—be careful not to overcook it.
• Grill the Patties: Place the bison patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Bison is best-served medium-rare to medium for optimal juiciness.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

• Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or skillet to add a bit of crunch.
• Spread the Whisky Mayo: Spread a generous amount of whisky mayo on both the top and bottom bun.
• Layer the Ingredients: Place a bison patty on the bottom bun, and top with crispy fried onions, lettuce, tomato, and a slice of cheddar cheese if desired. Add the top bun and press down gently.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Bison Burgers

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some classic sides that pair well with this Western Bison Burger:

• Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the smoky whisky mayo and the rich flavor of bison.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A simple, buttery corn on the cob adds freshness and crunch.
• BBQ Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky, baked beans are a great match for the whisky-infused flavors in this burger.
• Pickled Vegetables: The acidity of pickles balances the richness of the burger and adds a nice contrast.

Tips for Cooking with Bison Meat

Bison is leaner than beef, so it requires a slightly different approach to cooking. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:

1. Cook to Medium-Rare or Medium: Because bison has less fat, it can dry out quickly. Aim for a medium-rare to medium doneness to keep the patty juicy.
2. Avoid Overcooking: Bison cooks faster than beef, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
3. Rest the Patties: Letting the patties rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
4. Buy Quality Bison: Look for bright red bison meat, as it indicates freshness. Avoid any pieces that look gray or dull.

FAQ Section

What makes bison a healthier choice than beef?

• Bison is lower in fat and calories than beef, making it a healthier choice. It’s also rich in protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Does whisky mayo have alcohol?

• Yes, whisky mayo contains a small amount of alcohol. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use a whisky-flavored extract or omit the whisky altogether.

How do I keep bison burgers juicy?

• Avoid overcooking the patties and aim for medium-rare to medium doneness. Resting the patties for a few minutes after cooking also helps retain moisture.

What other types of meat can I use for this recipe?

• This recipe works well with beef, elk, or venison. Each will offer a slightly different flavor, but the seasonings and toppings can complement all of them.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Burger Game with Bison

If you’re ready to go beyond the traditional beef burger, the Western Bison Burger with Crispy Onions and Whisky Mayo is the perfect recipe. The rich, slightly sweet taste of bison, the crispy, golden onions, and the smoky whisky mayo come together to create a satisfying and memorable burger. It’s a perfect meal for gatherings, celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special.

So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a burger that truly stands out. With its unique flavors and healthier ingredients, this Western Bison Burger offers a delicious, guilt-free way to satisfy your burger cravings. Try it, savor it, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments—let us know how you made it your own!

Western Bison Burger with Crispy Onions and Whisky Mayo

A delicious and healthier twist on a classic burger, featuring rich, slightly sweet bison meat, crispy onions, and smoky whisky mayo for an unforgettable flavor experience.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Equipment

• Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients like the crispy onion coating and whisky mayo.
• Skillet or Frying Pan – for cooking the bison patties and frying the crispy onions.
• Tongs – to handle the burger patties and onions during cooking.
• Spatula – for flipping the burger patties
• Paper Towels – to drain excess oil from the crispy onions.
• Whisk or Spoon – for mixing the whisky mayo sauce.
• Burger Press (optional) – if you want to make evenly shaped patties.
• Meat Thermometer (optional) – for checking the doneness of the bison patties.
• Toaster or Grill Pan (optional) – for toasting the buns before assembly 4o

Ingredients

  

Burger Patties

• 1 lb Ground bison
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp Olive oil for cooking

Crispy Onions

• 1 Large onion thinly sliced
• 1 cup Flour
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• Oil for frying

Whisky Mayo

• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Whiskey
• 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
• Salt

Burger Assembly

• 4 Burger buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Cheese

Instructions

 

Burger Patties

• Season ground bison with salt and pepper, then form into patties.
• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness.

Crispy Onions

• Combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Dredge onion slices in mixture.
• Heat oil in a skillet. Fry onions until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.

Whisky Mayo

• In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, whisky, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.

Assembly

• Toast buns if desired. Spread whisky mayo on each bun.
• Place lettuce, tomato, burger patty, and crispy onions on the bun. Top with remaining bun half.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a slice of cheddar cheese. Pair with sweet potato fries for a complete meal

Keyword Bison Burger with Whisky Mayo, Crispy Onion Burger, Western Bison Burger