Waffle Burger with Saffron Rice

Components

1. The Waffle Burger

• Patty: 1 (5 oz) patty (Blueberry Sausage or Dry-Aged Beef Blend)

• Waffles: 2 Belgian or Eggo waffles

• Cheese: 1 slice sharp cheddar

• Egg: 1 large egg (fried or cooked to preference)

• Produce:

  • 2 leaves iceberg lettuce

  • 2 slices ripe tomato

• Sauce / Drizzle:

  • 2 tbsp Duke’s Mayo

  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup

2. Holy Trinity Saffron Rice

• Rice: 2 cups white basmati rice, rinsed

• Liquid: 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock

• Aromatics (The Trinity):

  • 1/3 cup small-diced red onion

  • 1/3 cup small-diced celery

  • 1/3 cup small-diced green bell pepper

• Spices & Oil:

  • 1/4 tsp saffron threads

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 3/4 tsp salt (plus black pepper to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Saffron Rice

1. Sauté the Trinity: Heat a large skillet or wide pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat. Add 2 tbsp olive oil, followed by the diced red onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the onions begin to turn translucent.

2. Season & Build the Base: Season with 3/4 tsp salt and a pinch of black pepper. Pour in the 3 cups stock and crumble in the 1/4 tsp saffron threads. Raise the heat to high and bring the liquid to a rolling boil.

3. Simmer the Rice: Add the 2 cups basmati rice and stir once to distribute evenly. Cover tightly with the lid and turn the heat down to low/medium-low.

4. Steaming: Cook undisturbed for 15–18 minutes, or until all the stock has been absorbed. Turn off the heat and let the pan sit covered for 4 minutes.

5. Finish: Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Burger & Waffles

1. Toast: Toast your waffles until golden and crisp so they can support the burger.

2. Sear the Patty: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the 5 oz patty to your desired doneness. Melt the cheddar slice over the patty during the last minute of cooking.

3. Fry the Egg: In a separate small skillet, fry the egg to your liking (a runny yolk pairs great with the maple and mayo).

Step 3: Assembly

1. Spread 1 tbsp Duke's Mayo on each toasted waffle.

2. Layer the bottom waffle with iceberg lettuce, tomato slices, the cheesy patty, and the fried egg.

3. Drizzle with maple syrup, top with the second waffle, and serve immediately alongside a warm mound of Holy Trinity Saffron Rice.