Burger and Fries Friday: Hawaiian Sliders with Pineapple Mayonnaise

This week's burger is one that I just sort of dreamed up. The idea came to me when I saw a package of those delicious Hawaiian rolls in the grocery store last week -- you know the ones I'm talking about, right? The sweet ones? I love those rolls, and I wanted to use them for some type of burger. A slider packed with Hawaiian flavors seemed like the perfect fit -- literally, as it turned out. These mini burgers were just the right size for the amazing rolls.

Joe and I both liked these a lot. The burgers are sweet and spicy at the same time, and I think the crunchy macadamia nuts and creamy pineapple mayo balance each other perfectly. Some cilantro would have been delicious in the mayo mixture; I may add that next time I make these. Amazingly, Joe, Andrew and I polished off 11 out of the 12 sliders this recipe makes. These little burgers are definitely packed with big flavor!

Hawaiian Sliders with Pineapple Mayonnaise

source: Cassie

1 pound ground pork

Half of a small green pepper, finely diced

Quarter of a small red onion, finely diced

1/2 tablespoon hamburger or steak seasoning

1/2 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce

1 tablespoon finely chopped macadamia nuts

1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Splash of pineapple juice

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/8 to 1/4 cup crushed pineapple

Salt and pepper to taste

1 package King's Hawaiian sweet rolls, split and toasted

1. In a large bowl, combine first nine ingredients. Separate burger mixture into four equal-sized sections, then separate each section into thirds to make 12 sliders. Cook over medium heat in a large skillet until cooked through.

2. Meanwhile, combine mayonnaise, crushed pineapple and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Chill until serving.

3. Place one slider on each roll bottom. Top with a dollop of pineapple mayonnaise, then the bun tops.