ALABAMA BEACH SHACK BURGERS

Steps:

• 1. To make the okra, pour the buttermilk into a medium sized bowl. Add the okra and stir briefly.
• 2. Combine the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, and one teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Drain the okra from the buttermilk, add to the flour mixture and toss to coat.
• 3. Heat two inches of oil in a medium, heavy bottomed saucepan over medium high heat and bring to 350 degrees. Shaking off excess flour, carefully add the okra to the hot oil and cook until golden brown (working in batches if necessary), about 4-5 minutes.
• 4. Remove from oil, drain on paper towels and while still hot sprinkle with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Note: You may substitute frozen fried okra if you are in a pinch! Sprinkle lightly with paprika and salt after frying.
• 5. Fry bacon until crisp.
• 6. To make the pickled tomatoes, whisk together the vinegar, salt and sugar in a medium bowl. Add the tomatoes and toss gently to coat. Cover and chill for 20-30 minutes. Drain and keep chilled.
• 7. For the BBQ sauce, in a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients thoroughly, cover and keep chilled.
• 8. To make the burgers, preheat a grill or grill pan to medium high heat. Combine the ground chuck, Sriracha, salt, and pepper in a chilled bowl. Form into 6 equal patties, being careful not to overwork the meat.
• 9. Place the patties on the grill, cover and cook approximately 4 minutes per side for medium.
• 10. Add the cheese slices to the burgers during the last few minutes of cooking time. Remove, cover and keep warm.
• 11. Brush the buns with the melted butter and toast lightly on the grill.
• 12. To assemble the burgers, spread BBQ sauce on the bottom buns, and in this order, place one lettuce leaf, one slice pickled tomato, the burgers, three slices bacon, an equal portion of the okra, a generous drizzle of the BBQ sauce, and finish with the bun tops. Serve and enjoy!