Caprese Burger
by Benjamin Maides, Chef, Au Courant Regional Kitchen, Omaha, Nebraska

- 2 pounds Certified Piedmontese 95% lean ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped basil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 6 to 8 hamburger buns
In a large bowl, mix ground beef with garlic and basil until incorporated. Shape the beef mixture into 6 to 8 patties, or to desired size. To an oven-safe sauté pan, add the cherry tomatoes, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast in an oven at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes blister and the mixture thickens to resemble jam. Season patties with salt and freshly-cracked pepper and grill to desired doneness. Top each patty with tomato jam and slices of mozzarella and serve on a bun.