Cosmic Crisp® “Center Cut” Apple Burger

**By Chadwick Boyd**
Photo by Brooke Slezak

Oh Yes, It’s Possible! Who Knew a Great Burger Could Be an Apple!

I have been wanting to marinate thick pieces of fruit in liquid aminos to create a delicious, plant-based burger for the last couple years. So I finally got in the kitchen and tinkered with my favorite apple, the Cosmic Crisp®, to create this “meaty,” big-in-flavor new “center cut” burger.

Liquid aminos can be found in many grocery stores, but I typically just order them online. They are sold in bottles, like steak sauce or vinegar, and are a naturally gluten-free and low sodium alternative to soy sauce or tamari.

Thick slices of Cosmic Crisp® are cut from the center of the apple, then marinaded in the aminos along with garlic powder, brown sugar and freshly cracked black pepper. It tenderizes the apple so it caramelizes on the grill, and the marinade flavor permeates the sweet-tart apple for a surprising and welcomed meaty, umami taste. These burgers are great plain, but I like to melt extra sharp white cheddar cheese on top before adding to toasted brioche buns.

Print This Recipe

Chadwick’s Checklist

What you need to know before you cook.

To save the planet, use a glass dish uncovered to marinate
Make the marinade a couple days ahead of time and store in the refrigerator
Toast your burger buns on the grill once you flip the burgers
Make the burgers in the morning and let marinate for an afternoon cookout

Serving Size: 4 Prep Time: 10 mins + 2-4 hours to marinate Cooking Time: 10-12 mins

Ingredients

1 cup liquid aminos (or soy sauce)
⅓ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Juice from half a lime
2 Cosmic Crisp® apples
4 slices extra sharp white cheddar, like Kerrygold® Dubliner

Directions

In a small, shallow baking dish, mix together the liquid aminos, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder and lime juice.
Slice the Cosmic Crisp® apples through the center about ½-inch thick. Using a fork, prick the apple slices in several places and place them in the marinade. Let sit in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours.
Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Place the Cosmic Crisp® apple slices on the grill. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes until the apples are caramelized and tender, but not soft. Lay the slices of cheese on top. Cover and let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.
Serve immediately on toasted burger buns.