Grilled Buffalo Burgers

Serves 6 / This recipe hails from The Fort restaurant in Morrison, Colorado, a replica of the state’s original gathering place for mountain men, wagon-train travelers, and Native Americans—perhaps the first Western block party. Buffalo, also called bison, is extremely lean, so cracked ice helps keep it moist while cooking. Serve on whole-wheat buns, dressed up with sliced vegetables or spreadable condiments (we loved it with the Three-Herb Pesto).

2 pounds ground buffalo
1/2 cup finely minced white onion
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups finely crushed ice
Salt and pepper

1. Spray grill rack with cooking spray and heat to high. Place all ingredients except salt and pepper in a large bowl. Knead until well mixed. Divide mixture into 6 portions and form patties. Don’t press too much or you’ll lose the juices.

2. Place patties on the grill. Season with salt and pepper and grill, turning once. Because buffalo is very lean, it overcooks easily. Cook to desired temperature, but do not overcook.