Caribbean Sliders by Chef Eddie Jackson

Celebrate the football season with a Caribbean flair! Former NFL pro and now renowned Chef Eddie Jackson brings a unique twist to the classic slider with his Caribbean-inspired recipe. These sliders are perfect for tailgating, game day gatherings, or even just a fun dinner at home.

ingredients:

for the sliders:

16 ounces ground chuck
1 1/2 tsps. each of:
ground allspice
cayenne pepper
red pepper flakes
garlic powder
onion powder
dried oregano
brown sugar
dried thyme
2 tsps. kosher salt
1 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
3 tbsps. melted butter
8 slices mild cheddar cheese
Brioche slider buns for serving
Non-stick spray for grill/pan

for the jerk ketchup:

1 cup ketchup
1 tsp. each of:
ground allspice
cayenne
red pepper flakes
garlic powder
onion powder
dried oregano
brown sugar
dried thyme
1/2 tsp. salt
Juice of 1 lime

for the red ale onion rings:

1 cup all-purpose flour
8 oz. red ale beer
2 large vidalia onions
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. each of:
fresh ground black pepper
garlic powder
Sea salt
4 cups canola oil

instructions:

Prepare the Sliders: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. In a bowl, mix beef with all the spices. Form into eight 2-ounce patties, pressing the center of each with your thumb to create an indent. Spray the grill or grill pan. Grill sliders for 2-3 minutes each side, adding cheese to the second side. Remove and let them rest.
Toast the Buns: Rub the buns with butter using a pastry brush. Grill for two minutes or until lightly toasted.
Make the Jerk Ketchup: Combine all ingredients and whisk until smooth.
Cook the Red Ale Onion Rings: Heat canola oil in a large 7-quart dutch oven to 350 degrees. Peel and slice onions into rings. In a bowl, combine flour, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk in beer. Dip onion rings into the batter, draining off excess. Fry in hot oil, flipping every 30 seconds until golden brown (2-3 minutes). Drain on a rack and sprinkle with sea salt.
Assemble the Sliders: Layer jerk ketchup on both buns, add a slider, and top with an onion ring.