Frita Cubana (Cuban Burger)
A beloved Havana street food, the frita cubana is a seasoned ground beef patty spiced with paprika and cumin, served on a soft roll and piled high with shoestring potato sticks and ketchup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 4 oz fresh Mexican chorizo (or more ground beef), casing removed
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 soft hamburger rolls or Cuban pan suave
- 1 cup shoestring potato sticks (canned, e.g. Planters)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup white onion, finely minced
Instructions
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1
In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef (80/20), 4 oz fresh Mexican chorizo (or more ground beef) (casing removed), 1/4 cup grated yellow onion, 2 cloves minced garlic cloves, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until just combined; do not overwork.
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2
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and press each into a thin patty about 4 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
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3
Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook the patties 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and a brown crust forms. Work in batches if needed.
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4
While patties cook, lightly toast the cut sides of 4 soft hamburger rolls or Cuban pan suave in a dry skillet or toaster until golden.
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5
To assemble, spread 1/2 cup ketchup on both cut sides of each roll. Place a patty on the bottom bun, add 1/4 cup finely minced white onion, and pile generously with 1 cup shoestring potato sticks (canned, e.g. Planters). Add the top bun and serve immediately.