The official White Castle timeline states that the five-hole burgers were introduced in 1947. Earl Howell, who ran a White Castle in Cincinnati, proposed adding the holes to allow the burgers to cook faster and improve the flavor. The burgers are steamed, which is rare but not unheard of. The idea was that holes would allow steam to penetrate the patties more effectively, resulting in faster cooking. Since the burgers are steamed on top of onions, the onion flavor would infuse the meat.
Looking for an easy, satisfying dish to bring to a New Year's Eve party? Here's how to make a batch of Sweet Hawaiian Roll Sliders, as made popular on TikTok. Chef Palestrina McCaffrey is the author of The Unofficial TikTok Cookbook, Volume 2 (Adams Media, $20), a 75-recipe collection of recipes seen on TikTok, and says this recipe will elevate your entertaining game to a 10.