The Master at Work: Hamburgers

James Beard’s Favorite Hamburgers

2 pounds ground beef

3 tablespoons finely grated onion

1 tablespoon heavy cream

1 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground black pepper

4 hamburger buns, toasted.

Spread the beef onto a cutting board and sprinkle with the grated onion. Mix in the cream, salt and some freshly ground pepper. Form into patties and cook either on a hot grill or in a hot cast-iron pan, about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Serve each in a bun. Makes four bergers.