Why Cheese Goes on Top of American Burgers: A Culinary Tradition

Burgers are a quintessential American food, with countless variations catering to different tastes. One question that often arises is, 'Why do Americans place cheese on top of their burgers, rather than under the patty or among the ingredients?' This article explores the reasoning behind this culinary tradition and delves into the culinary benefits of having cheese on top.

The Grilling Process and Cheese Placement

The primary reason for placing cheese on top of the patty is the grilling process. As the burger cooks on the grill, the patty releases heat, which is vital for melting the cheese. Placing cold, rigid cheese on top of a hot patty ensures that it melts seamlessly. Conversely, adding cold cheese beneath the patty could create an unsatisfactory experience, as it won't melt and might be a hard, unpleasant bite.

Warmth Enhances Flavor and Texture

Cheese placed on top of the patty allows it to relax and warm up from the patty's heat. This warming process makes the cheese more pliable, enhancing its flavor and texture. Warm, soft cheese is far more enjoyable to eat than cold, rigid cheese. Moreover, the warm cheese adds a rich, creamy taste to the burger, making each bite more delightful.

Heat risers: A Culinary Principle

Another compelling reason to place the cheese on top is the principle of heat rising. As the patty cooks, heat rises to the top, bringing the melted cheese to the surface. This phenomenon ensures that the burger's outer layer is perfectly melted and moist, providing optimal taste and texture. Even if you choose to add ingredients like lettuce, the melted cheese can still enhance the overall flavor of the burger.

Perfectly Melty Cheese: The Gold Standard

American cheese, often referred to as "processed cheese," is a popular choice among burger enthusiasts. Despite its reputation, this cheese melts exceptionally well and lends a rich, creamy flavor to the burger. The heat from the patty causes the cheese to melt, creating a succulent, unctuous texture that is hard to resist. This melting process is enhanced when the cheese is placed on top of the patty, ensuring a uniformly melted outcome. In an imperfect world, even garbage American cheese can perform well in a burger.

Exceptions and Variations

While the traditional method involves placing the cheese on top, some innovative chefs and cooks have experimented with different positions for the cheese. Some prefer to fold the meat around a slice of cheese, creating a pocket that may or may not melt. Others shred the cheese and mix it into the ground beef, resulting in a more cheese-infused patty. However, these methods may result in less cheese flavor in every bite and can lead to an imbalanced flavor profile.

The Perfect Burger Cheese Experience

One rare exception where placing cheese on top is highly beneficial is when the burger includes mushrooms. In this case, the cheese helps to bind the mushroom pieces to the burger, preventing them from falling out with each bite. This approach retains the texture and flavor of the burger while ensuring that all components are well-integrated.

Conclusion

The tradition of placing cheese on top of American burgers is not merely a matter of convenience; it boasts significant culinary advantages. The grilling process, warmth-enhanced flavor, and the principle of heat rising all contribute to a more enjoyable and flavorful burger. While there are exceptions, the traditional method remains the preferred choice for many burger enthusiasts due to its superior taste and texture.