It's Memorial Day, a time when Americans nationwide gear up to honor this significant holiday, which marks both remembrance and the start of summer. The roads are filled with cars headed toward destinations both near and far, airports are packed with travelers, and train stations echo with the excitement of folks heading home after the long weekend. Memorial Day is not only a time to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our country but also an opportunity for families and friends to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the beginnings of summer.
The Travel Rush
Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest travel periods of the year in the United States. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), millions of Americans take to the roads, skies, and rails, embarking on trips that mark the unofficial start of summer. The highways are lined with cars, many adorned with bicycles, kayaks, and camping gear, as people head to beaches, national parks, and mountain retreats.
Airports experience a surge in travelers, with families heading to destinations that promise adventure, relaxation, and connection. From bustling cities like New York, Las Vegas, and San Francisco to serene coastal towns and rustic cabins in the woods, the nation is on the move this holiday weekend.
The Historical Significance
Amidst the excitement of travel and gatherings, it is crucial to remember the profound significance of Memorial Day. Originally known as Decoration Day, this tradition began after the Civil War, as communities across the country decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, flags, and other tokens of remembrance. One of the earliest known observances took place in 1865 in Charleston, South Carolina, organized by freed African Americans to honor Union soldiers who died in a Confederate prison camp.
In 1868, General John A. Logan called for a nationwide day of remembrance on May 30, a date chosen because it was not the anniversary of any specific battle. This day evolved into what we now know as Memorial Day, expanding to honor all American military personnel who have died in service to their country. In 1971, it was declared a federal holiday and moved to the last Monday in May, creating a long weekend that has since become synonymous with travel and the start of summer.
The Quintessential Barbeque & Memorial Day Hamburger Recipe
Amidst the hustle and bustle of travel and commemoration, Memorial Day also marks the unofficial beginning of barbecue season. Families and friends gather around grills to savor the first flavors of summer, and no dish is more iconic for this holiday than the classic hamburger. Here’s the perfect Memorial Day hamburger recipe (we’re making it tonight!) The egg yolk adds the right amount of fat (ask Gordon Ramsey) and adding panko bread crumbs helps to keep the burger moist and ensure it holds together while cooking.
Delicious and Juicy Hamburger Recipe
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dijon mustard
1 egg yolk
¼ cup onion, finely chopped or grated fine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 brioche buns
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, dijon mustard, egg yolk, chopped onion, minced garlic, panko bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
Mix the ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can make the burgers tough.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions.
Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can also cook the burgers on a stovetop griddle or in a skillet.
Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time according to your desired doneness.
Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula, as this can squeeze out the flavorful juices.
4. Toast the Buns:
During the last minute of cooking, place the brioche buns, cut side down, on the grill or griddle to toast lightly.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
Place each patty on the bottom half of a toasted brioche bun. Add your favorite toppings and condiments, such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, ketchup, and mustard. I love adding bacon, sauteed mushrooms, swiss cheese, Kewpie mayo or even avocado or a fried egg (just not all at once). If you’re feeling up for it, you can also make a bacon or tomato jam to top your burgers- perfection!
Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.