Pork Burgers with Figs and Fennel

Figs were on sale at Whole Foods this weekend. I have never had fresh figs before. As a matter of fact, I'm not sure if I've ever had figs in any form other than a Newton. We got figs, not knowing even what to do with them. We also got fennel. I thought the two would go nicely together. I wanted something sweet, spicy and a bit smoky and pork always goes well with those 3 flavors.

2 lbs ground pork
2 Tbsp Fig Balsamic vinegar
1 tsp cinn
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp crushed brown mustard seeds
1 tsp chipotle powder
1/2 tsp ground fennel
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp coriander
1/2 tsp cayenne

Combine all ingredients thoroughly and let sit at room temp for about 30 mins (or more). Shape them into burgers or sliders. Then grill to awesome perfection. 

1 Fennel bulb
8 figs
1/2 cup sweet onion, sliced thin
1/2 Tbsp Balsamic vinegar 
butter or oil

Heat butter or oil. Jullien fenneland cut figs into 8ths. Saute fennel and onions for about 10 minutes. Let them caramelize a bit and then add figs. continue to saute for 3 minutes then add balsamic and reduce for a few minutes. Serve on top of pork burgers.