BIG BANG BURGER INSPIRED BY PERSONA 5

For the Giant Burger Bun

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix briefly to combine the dry ingredients.

Slowly add in warm water and warm milk. Mix on low speed with the dough hook attachment until a rough dough forms.

Gradually add in room temperature butter, a few pieces at a time, allowing each to incorporate before adding more. Continue mixing until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it proof for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough to release the air, shape it into a large ball, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray and let it proof for another hour.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until the bun is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool completely before slicing in half horizontally.

For the Beef Patties

In a large bowl, combine 12 pounds of ground beef. Mix until the texture is homogenous.

Divide the beef into six equal portions and shape them into large patties, roughly the size of your sheet tray.

Season each patty generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Place the patties in the fridge to set up while you prepare the grill.

Heat a flat top griddle or large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook each beef patty one at a time, seasoning with additional salt and pepper as they hit the heat.

Flip the patties using a metal spatula or pizza peel. After flipping, place slices of American cheese on top of each patty and cover with a large mixing bowl to help the cheese melt.

Cook the patties until they reach your desired doneness (about 4-5 minutes per side for medium). Set them aside on a tray as you cook the rest.

For the Assembly

Slice 4-5 large tomatoes and 2 large onions thinly. Set aside.

In a small bowl, mix together Kewpie mayo, mustard, ketchup, pickle juice, onion powder, and paprika. This will be your burger sauce.

Slice the giant burger bun in half using a large serrated knife. Spread the bottom half with the prepared burger sauce.

Lay down a bed of butter lettuce, followed by the first beef patty. Add sliced tomatoes and onions on top.

Repeat the layering process: lettuce, beef patty, tomatoes, and onions for all six patties.

Once all the patties are stacked, crown the tower with the top half of the burger bun.

For the ultimate presentation, cut the burger into wedges like a cake and serve to your friends.

If it's too large to eat as is, slice off smaller sections to enjoy!