Serves 6

You can substitute some olive oil for pork fat, but keep in mind that the flavor will be compromised.

2 ounces pork fat

2 ounces pancetta

½ pound ground pork

½ pound ground veal

1 egg

1 tablespoon fresh-cracked black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon dried sage

¼ teaspoon dried red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Kosher salt, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

• Finely dice the pork fat and pancetta. Mix together all the ingredients except the oil until thoroughly blended; form into patties.

• Heat the oil to medium temperature in a skillet. Brown patties on each side, covered with a lid to ensure thorough cooking. Drain on paper-toweled rack, then serve.

Ask for the Butcher's Help

To make things easier on you when buying steaks, ask your butcher to cut a single slice of round steak ½-inch thick, butterfly it, and pound to ¼-inch thick for you. Of course, you can pound it yourself if you need to release some frustration.