Bison Burgers With Cabernet Onions and Wisconsin Cheddar

Bison (buffalo) meat is very lean and is a healthier alternative to beef. The Cabernet onions nicely complement the burgers. From Bon Appetit, February 2009.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3  cups  sliced onions (about 2)
• 3⁄4 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 1  lb  ground buffalo meat (bison)
• 2  tablespoons  chopped shallots
• 1⁄4 teaspoon  coarse kosher salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4  hamburger buns
• 6  ounces  sliced wisconsin white cheddar cheese
• 2 -3  tablespoons Dijon mustard (to taste)
• 1  small  head escarole, leaves separated

Directions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in heavy medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, sprinkle with salt, and sauté until tender and golden brown, stirring often, about 10 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to medium and continue to sauté until very tender and well browned, about 15 minutes longer. Add wine and cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes. (Can be made 3 days ahead. Cool, cover, and chill.).
3. Preheat broiler. Gently mix meat and next 3 ingredients in large bowl. Shape into four 1/2-inch-thick patties. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in heavy large skillet over high heat. Sprinkle burgers with salt and pepper; add to skillet. Cook until well browned, about 2 minutes per side for medium-rare.
4. Open buns and arrange, cut side up, on rimmed baking sheet. Place cheese slices on bun tops. Broil until cheese melts and bottom halves are lightly toasted, about 1 minute. Spread bottom halves with mustard. Top each with a few escarole leaves, then burger. Spoon onions on top pf burgers, dividing equally. Cover with bun tops; press lightly.