George's Mini Beef Burgers

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

2.Prepare the fries by tossing the cut potatoes in vegetable oil, salt, and optional seasoning. Spread them evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

3.While the fries bake, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep burgers juicy.

4.Divide the beef mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a mini patty about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick, sized to fit the mini buns.

5.Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the mini patties in batches for about 3 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature 71°C/160°F).

6.In the last minute of cooking, place half a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt slightly.

7.Lightly toast the mini burger buns in the oven or on a grill pan until just golden.

8.Assemble the mini burgers by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, then the cheesy beef patty, a slice of dill pickle, and a small dollop of ketchup and mustard if desired. Top with the bun lid.

9.Serve the mini beef burgers immediately alongside the hot crunchy fries for a perfect quick snack after a game of rugby.