Forget Buns — For A Fresh Twist On Cheeseburgers, Grab A Couple Of Onions

Normally, to add a twist to a cheeseburger, we either add new layers or simply replace some ingredients with new variations, but the bread almost always stays. What if, just for once, we swap the buns for something else? It might sound crazy, but after you try it, you won't regret it. For example, onions are the go-to ingredient for savory stuffed dinners and, given their shape, they can easily be used for cheeseburgers instead of buns. This practice is largely used in the Middle East and across the Mediterranean, where it gives rise to numerous dishes such as the Turkish soğan dolması or the Greek kremmydia gemista.

While we normally cut or slice onions, separating every layer reveals that each one is shaped like a boat that can be perfectly stuffed and closed. It envelopes the stuffing and guarantees stability, so the filling won't fall out. You only need to boil the onions for about 15 minutes, until the surface softens; then let them cool, and finally you can take the petals apart. That's pretty much it: You can mold every layer to your liking and stuff it with a classic cheeseburger mixture.

There are wide varieties of onions, so understanding the most popular types will help you choose what works best for your dish. Regardless of which variety you pick, keep a few tips in mind: The bigger, the better, since you need to make edible cups out of them, and a larger size will make the process much easier. Sweet onions like Vidalia are very delicate and add a caramelized touch, while yellow onions hold their shape better and, beyond having a high sugar content, are also high in sulfur, which makes them more pungent. In any case, next time you go to the grocery store, look for these signs to choose the best onions every time.

Once you're finished, you'll possibly want to find sides or sauces to pair with your creation. Since it's practically a bunless cheeseburger, it pairs well with french fries or sweet potato fries, as well as classic toppings like mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard. This gives you a dish as comforting as a classic cheeseburger, but with a significantly lower carb intake and a lighter feel. If you want to get an idea of how to make it, check out this video from a user on Instagram.