Monday 24 June 2013

American diner meal: Turkey burger, spicy potato wedges and classic vanilla milkshake



After visiting "Ed's easy diner" for my brother's birthday, I have been obsessed with traditional American diners with their red booths and retro signs. I have always been a fan of all things retro, even since my childhood, when I used to get my parents to read "This is the way we make and bake" and "Usborne first cookbooks party things" (two old cook books) to me instead of stories. Even now, I still adore all things vintage, especially diners like these. There is something about the checkered floors and juke box machines that really appeals to me.

Not only do I love the interior of these restaurants but I love the food they serve as well. From "chilli dogs" to "malt shakes", their classic menus can never fail. This is why I have made an adapted menu for an American diner style meal. I have chosen a turkey burger instead of the traditional beef (a favourite at home), a classic vanilla milkshake and spicy potato wedges instead of deep fried chips.


Turkey burger

Makes 4


350g/12 oz fresh minced turkey breast

4 tbsp fresh wholemeal breadcrumbs
1 small onion, chopped
1 eating apple, peeled, cored and finely chopped
Zest and juice 1 small lemon
2 tbsp finely chopped, fresh parsley
sunflower oil, for brushing
salt and pepper
4 granary tolls or focaccia, split

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high and line the grill with foil. Place the turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, apple, lemon zest and juice and parsley into a large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper and gently mix to combine. Divide into four equal-sized portions and shape each portion into a patty.


2. Brush the patties with oil and place onto the preheated grill. Cook, turning once, for 5 minutes, or until cooked through. Test to check that the juices run clear when they are pierced with the point of a knife. If there are any traces of pink, return to the grill for 1-2 minutes.


3. Place a burger on each bun base, add the bun lids and any optional salad and serve immediately.


Recipe from: "The burger" recipe book by LOVE FOOD


Vanilla milkshake


Makes 4 servings


4 cups quality vanilla ice cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract
8 tablespoons sugar
2 cups milk (less for thicker milkshakes)

1. Blend all ingredients in a blender until combined

2. Serve in a tall drinking glass with a straw

Recipe from: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/vanilla-milkshake-recipe/index.html


Spicy potato wedges


Makes 8 servings


4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed and rinsed

3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced and mashed against the cutting board with the flat of a knife
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed fine
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. 

Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Cut each half, lengthwise, into 4 equally sized wedges. Add the potato wedges to a large mixing bowl with the rest of the ingredients. Toss meticulously to coat the potatoes evenly. 



Line a sheet pan with foil. Place the potato wedges, skin side down, on the foil. Be sure to space evenly, so they cook uniformly. Bake for 35 minutes, or until well browned, crusty edged, and tender. Serve immediately, sprinkled with more salt if desired.

Recipe from: http://americanfood.about.com/od/potatosidedishrecipes/r/Potato_Wedges_Recipe.htm





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