1917 Original Recipe Mississippi Slugburger – A Vintage Classic with a Crispy Twist

If you’ve ever wanted a taste of authentic Southern history, the Mississippi Slugburger is the perfect dish to take you back in time. Originating during the Great Depression, this humble yet delicious burger was created as a way to stretch beef and make it go further. By combining ground beef with potato flakes, these burgers became a staple in Mississippi and other parts of the South. Despite their name, no slugs were harmed in the making of these burgers— “slug” was simply a slang term for a nickel, the cost of a burger back in the day.

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Fried to crispy perfection and served on a steamed bun with the traditional toppings of mustard, dill pickles, and onions, the Mississippi Slugburger is a taste of history that you can recreate in your kitchen today.

Why You’ll Love the Mississippi Slugburger

This vintage burger is both crispy and flavorful, with a unique texture thanks to the addition of potato flakes. Unlike modern burgers that are typically juicy and tender, the Mississippi Slugburger has a crispy outer layer from being fried in oil, while still being flavorful and hearty on the inside. The combination of simple ingredients with classic toppings makes for a delicious burger experience, perfect for those who appreciate traditional flavors and a bit of crunch in their burger.

The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it an excellent option for anyone looking for a quick, tasty meal with a touch of history.

The Secret to the Perfect Mississippi Slugburger

The key to the perfect Slugburger lies in the combination of ground beef and potato flakes. The potato flakes help stretch the meat while adding a slight crispiness to the outside when fried. The patties don’t need to be perfectly formed—part of their charm is their rustic appearance, reflecting the resourceful cooking methods of the time.

Another crucial element is frying the patties in oil to achieve that signature crispy texture. This is what sets Slugburgers apart from modern grilled or pan-seared burgers.

Fun Facts About the Mississippi Slugburger

• Historical Roots: The Slugburger originated in Corinth, Mississippi, in the early 20th century as a way to make ground beef last longer during the Great Depression.
• No Slugs Involved: Despite the name, "slug" refers to a nickel, the original price of these burgers.
• Festival Favorite: Each year, Corinth hosts the Slugburger Festival, celebrating this historic sandwich with food, live music, and competitions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 3 Patties):

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 460mg

These burgers are simple, satisfying, and carry a taste of history, making them a unique addition to any meal.

Serving Suggestions

The traditional way to serve a Mississippi Slugburger is on a steamed bun with classic toppings like mustard, dill pickle slices, and onions. However, you can get creative and add your favorite burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, or even a slice of cheese if you want a more modern twist.

For sides, serve your Slugburger with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or even a simple green salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with Southern favorites like hush puppies or coleslaw for a truly authentic experience.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Storage: Leftover Slugburgers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven until heated through.
• Freezing: These patties freeze well. Simply shape the patties, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and fry as instructed.

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1917 Original Recipe Mississippi Slugburger

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (75-80% lean)
• 1 cup potato flakes (or a combination of potato flour and potato flakes)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking oil (enough to cover the patties for frying)

Instructions:

1. Begin by heating your oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll want the oil to reach a temperature of 350°F for frying.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, potato flakes, and salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the potato flakes are evenly distributed throughout the beef.
3. Form the mixture into 3 or 4 patties. The patties don’t need to be perfect or overly thick—keeping them rustic adds to the authenticity.
4. Once the oil has reached 350°F, carefully place the patties into the hot oil. Fry for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the patties are cooked through and have a light golden crust on the outside.
5. Remove the patties from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate for a few minutes.
6. Serve the patties hot on steamed buns with mustard, dill pickle slices, and sliced onions for a true taste of the original 1917 Slugburger.

Extra Tips:

• For added flavor, you can experiment with seasoning the beef mixture with garlic powder or paprika.
• If you prefer a slightly juicier patty, mix in a tablespoon of water or milk with the beef and potato mixture.
• Be sure to monitor the oil temperature during frying to ensure the patties cook evenly without burning.

The Mississippi Slugburger is a true taste of history. With its crispy exterior and flavorful interior, this burger is perfect for anyone who enjoys vintage recipes and the simple joys of comfort food. Whether you’re recreating it for a nostalgic meal or trying it for the first time, you’ll love this classic Southern burger. Enjoy!