Julia Child's Ground Beef Patties with Onions and Herbs

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 1/2 pound lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon thyme
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, spread on a plate
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup beef broth or red wine

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tbsp butter and cook the onions slowly for about 10 minutes (until very tender but not browned). Place in a mixing bowl.

2. 2

   Add the beef, soft butter, seasonings, and egg to the onions in the mixing bowl and beat vigorously with a wooden spoon to blend thoroughly. Correct seasoning. Form into patties 3/4 inch thick. Cover with waxed paper and refrigerate until ready to use.

3. 3

   Just before sauteing, roll the patties lightly in the flour. Shake off excess flour.

4. 4

   Add 1 tablespoon butter and oil to a pan over moderately high heat and when you see the butter foam begin to subside, saute the patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, depending on how you like your hamburgers (rare, medium or well done).

5. 5

   Arrange the patties on the serving platter and keep warm for a moment while finishing the sauce. Pour the fat out of the skillet.

6. 6

   Add the liquid (broth, wine or water) and boil it down rapidly, scraping up the coagulated pan juices, until it has reduced almost to a syrup. Off heat, swirl leftover butter into the sauce until it is absorbed.

7. 7

   Pour the sauce over the hamburgers and serve.