Cuban Frita

Start by adding the oil to a skillet. Bring it to a medium heat, then toss in the shallot and garlic. Cook this just until it sweats, about 4 minutes, then remove from the heat and let cool.

Add the ground chuck to a mixing bowl. To a smaller bowl, add in the salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Use your finger and swirl to combine the seasonings. Add the seasoning to the ground chuck, along with the cooled shallot and garlic mixture. Use your hand to combine everything with the ground chuck. Form into golf ball, or a bit larger, shapes.

Get a large cast iron, or nonstick skillet onto a medium high heat. Add a few of the burgers to the skillet and let these sit there and cook for a minute or so, then smash them down into thin patties. I’ve been a big fan of the smashed burger lately. Something about the caramelization of them just turns me on.

Let these cook for a few minutes, then flip. Top with some of the American cheese, and let that melt. Cook for another minute or so, then finish making the Cuban Fritas.

Add the cheeseburger to the sliced bun, then top with a small handful of the shoestring potatoes. Repeat with however many sliders you want to make. Serve with pickles if desired.

The end result is nothing short of amazing. You get this awesome crunch with adds great texture to the burger, then the seasoning itself is out of this world. It’s got great garlic flavor, with that awesome hint of cumin. It actually might have you questioning your standard burger from now on, and my wife and kids loved it as well. Hope you enjoy!