Mesquite BBQ Burger

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chuck
• ½ tsp mesquite smoke powder
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ tbsp apple cider vinegar
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper
• 2 tsp light molasses
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp yellow mustard

Steps

1. Preheat the grill to 500–575°F.
2. Combine the garlic, smoke powder, and 4 heavy pinches each of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Set aside.
4. Combine the remaining ingredients in a mixing bowl.
5. Form into ¾ inch-thick patties.
6. Make an indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
7. Sprinkle the patties on both sides with the seasoning mixture.
8. Place on the grill and cook, turning often, until desired doneness is achieved.
9. Serve on buns with the cook's choice of cheese and desired toppings.