Bacon Burger with Smoked Gouda and Avocado Shallot Spread

• Pickled Shallots & Avocado Spread:
• 2 large shallots
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp coriander (whole, not ground)
• 1 Tbsp whole black pepper
• 1 large ripe avocado, mashed
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• salt & pepper, to taste
• Burger:
• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 1/4 lb. bacon, cut into ¼” pieces
• 4 slices of smoked gouda (or cheese of your choice)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• Arugula and sliced tomatoes, for serving
• Buns (we prefer brioche)

Pickled Shallots and Avocado Spread:

To prepare the pickled shallots, combine vinegar, sugar and salt in an airtight jar until dissolved. Add shallots and whole spices to jar and fill with water until completely covered. Refrigerate for a day or at least 2 weeks. For the spread, combine mashed avocado, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Chop 2 Tbsp of the pickled shallots and add to spread mixture. Set aside while making burgers.

Bacon Burger:

For the burgers, combine ground beef, bacon, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Form four equal patties to ½” thick and grill on medium high heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and add a slice of cheese while cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until desired doneness. Serve on toasted buns with a smear of the Avocado Spread. Add arugula, tomatoes, additional pickled shallots, and other desired toppings. Makes 4 burgers.