The Pepper Mistake You Might Be Making When Seasoning Burgers - Tasting Table

"Salt should be added to burger patties before they hit the grill or stove, while black pepper should be added after cooking to avoid bitterness."

"When pepper comes in contact with a heat source, the volatile flavors in each peppercorn are released, creating a bitter taste."

"Bobby Flay suggests seasoning burgers with salt and freshly ground pepper before cooking, while Pat LeFrieda recommends adding pepper after cooking."

Seasoning burgers at home enhances flavor significantly. Salt should be added before cooking, while black pepper should be added after to prevent bitterness. When exposed to heat, pepper can release volatile flavors that create a bitter taste. This principle also applies to cooking steak. While some chefs, like Bobby Flay, recommend seasoning with both salt and pepper before cooking, the advice from butcher Pat LeFrieda emphasizes the importance of timing for optimal flavor.

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