One of the most unique (and delicious) burgers!
If you happen to find yourself in Girardville, Pennsylvania, be sure to stop into Tony’s Lunch. The greasy spoon is a repository of quirky contradictions. For one, it isn’t open for lunch, despite the name. But more importantly, it is the birthplace of the inexplicably delicious “Fluff Screamer” burger.
Where did I find out about this burger? From Craig Alanson’s Expeditionary Force series, a book about an average Joe and a smartass, hyper-intelligent beer can, (Skippy the Magnificent in case you didn’t know who I was referring to,) who save the universe time and again. The books are amazing, especially when you listen to the audible version narrated by the incredible R.C. Bray. When Joe described the sweet and savory Fluff Screamer, I knew I had to give it a try—with my own healthy modifications, of course.
The first time I attempted this, I replaced the buns with sweet potato pancakes, which was good but brought too much sweet to the equation. Round two got rid of the buns altogether, leaving the now-famous Naked Fluffer Screamer. I’ve made this burger for a few people now, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
My “orjannic” marshmallow fluff, combined with the creamy brie and caramelized onions, all drizzled in some face-melting hot sauce, make this possibly one of the best burgers in the world. The fluff is made from natural ingredients: egg whites, honey, and cream of tartar. The burger itself uses no bun, staying true to its name. This unique flavor combination brings savory, sweet, spicy, and creamy elements together for a burger experience unlike any other.
So, do me a favor: make this and comment on my Instagram post to let me know what you think of the Naked Fluffer Screamer!
Naked Fluffer Screamer Burger Recipe
Ingredients:
Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix for optimal juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Homemade Natural Marshmallow Fluff:
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Toppings:
- 4 slices of brie cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced and caramelized
- Hot sauce of your choice
Instructions:
Prepare the Homemade Marshmallow Fluff:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the honey and cream of tartar.
- Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), ensuring the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl.
- Using a hand mixer, whisk until the mixture is warm to the touch.
- Add the egg whites and continue to whisk vigorously over the simmering water until the mixture is thick, glossy, and has doubled in volume (about 7-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool. The fluff should be stiff and hold peaks.
Prepare the Patties:
- Divide the ground beef into four equal parts.
- Form each part into a patty, seasoning both sides with salt and pepper.
Cook the Patties:
- Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high.
- Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on one side.
- Flip the patties, and immediately place a slice of brie cheese on each patty.
- Cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness.
Assembly Instructions:
- Place each cooked patty on a plate.
- Top with a slice of brie cheese: The warmth of the patty will help slightly melt the cheese.
- Add caramelized onions over the cheese: Their sweetness will complement the creamy brie.
- Dollop the homemade marshmallow fluff on top of the onions: This will add a unique, sweet texture and flavor.
- Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the fluff: The hot sauce will give a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the fluff and the richness of the brie.