George's Mini Beef Burgers

1.Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F) for the fries.

2.Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for 20 minutes to remove excess starch.

3.Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep burgers tender.

4.Divide the beef mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into small, round mini burger patties, about 5cm (2 inches) in diameter, perfect for little hands.

5.Drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.

6.Toss the fries in vegetable oil, salt, and optional smoked paprika or dried herbs for extra flavor.

7.Spread the fries evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

8.While fries bake, heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

9.Cook the mini burger patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 71°C/160°F).

10.Place a small slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt slightly.

11.Lightly toast the mini burger buns in the oven or on a skillet until just golden.

12.To assemble, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun and ketchup on the top half.

13.Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, add a mini cheeseburger patty, and top with a slice of cherry tomato.

14.Cover with the top bun and secure with a small toothpick if desired.

15.Serve the mini beef burgers warm alongside the crunchy oven-baked fries.

16.Tip: These mini burgers are perfect for little hands and make a great quick snack after a rugby game, just like George and his friends would enjoy!