Rockit Kobe Burger with Brie, Shallots and Date Aioli

2 pounds ground kobe beef (75- to 80-percent lean)

8 ounces brie for 8 slices ¼-inch thick by 2-inches wide

4 onion brioche buns

8 medjool dates, pitted

¼ cup olive oil

4 shallots, thinly sliced

3 tablespoons Wondra flour

Kosher salt

Fresh ground black pepper

4 tablespoons plus 4 cups vegetable oil

Place ring mold (or large round cooking cutter) on cutting board, line with plastic wrap (you'll need four sheets of wrap) and press, one at a time, 8-ounce portions of kobe beef into the mold to form patties about ½-inch thick. Press firmly and evenly so that there are no air gaps. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for 1 hour or more.

Meanwhile, prepare the date aioli and fried shallots. With a mortar and pestle, crush the pitted dates and slowly add the olive oil, season with a pinch of kosher salt, set aside.

Heat 4 cups vegetable oil in a shallow pan. Toss the sliced shallots with Wondra flour. Fry for 1 minute until crispy and golden brown, drain on a paper towel lined plate.

Heat grill to medium-high heat. Drizzle the 1 tablespoon oil on each burger, season generously with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. Cook about 3 to 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Top each burger with 2 pieces of brie and let rest for 1 minute.

To assemble: Lightly toast the buns on the grill, spread a generous spoon of date aioli on each bottom bun, divide shallots onto each of the bun bottoms. Place burgers on each of the buns and serve.

Serves four.

Chef Amanda Downing, Rockit Burger Bar

Great Pairings from Binny's Beverage Depot

Binny's suggestions for pairing with beef and burgers:

WineBodegas Arrocal -- A stunner from the Ribera del Duero region of Spain. Woo% tempranillo, this wine has it all with dense black fruits & interesting complexities of cedar and spice; with a long, savory finish!

Craft beer:Founders Porter -- Big roasted malt flavors upfront. Deliciously appetizing roastiness gives way to smooth, sweet chocolate and a woody , peaty flavor. Finishes with a kiss of hop bitterness!• Check out these offering and more at the new Binny's in Arlington Heights69 W. Rand Road, (847) 870-9890