Buffalo Burger with Garden Relish

For the burger

• 1 3/4 pounds buffalo meat, ground
• 1/3 cup macadamias, or other nuts of preference, diced
• 1 shallot, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon capers
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the harvest fruit relish

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup macadamia pieces
• 3 plums, peaches, or nectarines, diced
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup red wine
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons soft goat cheese or chevre
• lettuce
• 4-6 burger rolls or Ciabatta

1. To make the burgers, combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate 1 hour, if possible, to allow flavors to develop.
2. To make the relish, heat oil in a saucepan and cook the onion and macadamias over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until onion is starting to soften.
3. Add the fruit and cook 2-3 minutes longer, stirring occasionally. Add remaining ingredients and cook until liquid is absorbed and relish is thick and glossy. Keep warm or chill for use when needed.
4. Preheat barbecue or Square Grill Pan and brush with oil. Cook the burgers over a medium to high heat for 6-7 minutes each side or until cooked as desired.
5. Spread rolls with goat cheese, top with the lettuce and burger and spoon over the hot or cold relish.