Grilled Burgers with Garlic and Chipotles

3 medium garlic cloves, unpeeled
1 1/2 pounds ground beef, preferably 100 percent ground chuck
1 T. minced chipotle chile in adobo sauce
2 T. minced green onion
1 t. salt
1/2 t. ground black pepper
vegetable oil for oiling grill rack

Toast unpeeled garlic cloves in small, dry skillet over medium heat, shaking pan occasionally, until cloves are fragrant and color deepens slightly, about 8 minutes. When cool enough to handle, skin and mince garlic. Cool.

In large bowl, break up chuck to increase surface area for seasoning. Add minced garlic, chipotle, green onion, salt and pepper. Toss lightly with clean hands. Divide meat into 4 equal portions, gently forming patties about 4 1/2 inches across, about 3/4-inch thick. Press center of patty down with your fingertips until about 1/2-inch thick, thus creating well in center.

Lightly dip small wad of paper towels in vegetable oil; holding wad with tongs, wipe grill rack. Grill burgers, uncovered and without pressing down on them, turning once.

Serves 4.