May is National Hamburger Month

(CANVAS STAFF REPORTS) - For the purist, the debate over where hamburgers originated can generate the response: who cares, pass the mustard.

Was it the Mongols who discovered that beef became tender enough to eat raw after it was stashed under their saddles while riding horses in battle, as reported on seariouseats.com?

Maybe; maybe not.

"The history of proletarian dishes like hamburgers is rarely explained by a linear progression of events," writes John T. Edge in his book "Hamburgers and Fries."

What is known without debate is that May is National Hamburger Month, a time to recognize – and eat – that favorite of warm-weather grilling and fast-food outings.

From the cult-like following of California-based In-N-Out Burger and Ohio-based White Castle, to the ubiquitous Golden Arches of McDonald's, this internationally loved sandwich has earned its own month.

There's some creative celebrating planned for May, too. White Castle is commemorating its 18th annual celebration of National Hamburger Month by offering a candle with the steam-grilled-on-a-bed-of-onions scent of America's first fast-food hamburger. Net proceeds will benefit Autism Speaks, according to a company press release .

Burgers have come a long way since the days of J. Wellington Wimpy, Popeye's hamburger-obsessed friend with the famous saying, "I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today."

Nowadays one can find all kinds of burgers: beef, turkey, vegetarian . And don't forget the toppings: lettuce, tomato and onion, or mushrooms, grilled onions, barbecue sauce, cheeses, and on it goes.

To help you celebrate National Hamburger Month , check out a list offering ideas for a different burger each day in May, 31 unique burgers that range from classic to exotic, simple to refined.