What Makes a Good Plant-based Burger?
When it comes to crafting the perfect burger, there are several key factors to consider. Here at Beesechurgers, we’re all about making quality vegan burgers. Therefore, we want to share some of our key secrets to making good plant-based burgers.
Characteristics of a Good Burger
A good burger is defined by several key characteristics:
- Flavorful Patty: The patty is the heart of the burger, and it should be packed with flavor. This can be achieved through seasoning and the quality of plant-based ingredients used. We have crafted our supreme patty to make sure it carries a great level of juiciness and flavor. You would hardly think it’s completely animal-free.
- Juiciness: A great vegan burger is juicy, not dry. We are big fans of a saucy burger, and we believe you should be too!
- Texture: The texture should be tender and not too dense. Cooking it for too long will make it too tough, so you want to get your timing just about right.
- Proper Bun-to-Patty Ratio: The bun should complement the patty without overwhelming it. It should be soft yet sturdy enough to hold the burger together.
- Fresh Toppings: Fresh, high-quality veggies and toppings add to the overall taste and experience. We are not afraid to experiment with out-of-the-box toppings, but we also don’t want to go too overboard!
Our Best Vegan Burger Ingredients
The plant-based ingredients we choose can make or break your burger. Here are some of the best burger ingredients we consider:
- High-Quality Protein: Starting with high-quality vegan protein is essential. We love to use a mix of soy, wheat, rice, and mushrooms. Getting this mix right can make a variety of delicious variations.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are classic choices. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices and herbs.
- Buns: We use a plant-based brioche bun, which is mostly made from whole wheat. We use yeast to make the dough rise and add some soy protein and vegetable fat to make the bread fluffy, soft yet firm, and airy. Toasting before topping is essential to limit a soggy experience.
- Plant-based Cheese: A good melty vegan cheese goes a long way. Sliced cheese or liquid cheese both work fine. At Beesechurgers, we use a sauce that symbolizes the cheese taste, which we call the Beese. This goes on all grilled supreme patties and can be added to anything you choose.
- Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles are our standard toppings. Additionally, we might do a variation of a different one, such as sautéed mushrooms or sliced avocados. These are all great choices. Choose fresh and ripe ingredients!
- Sauces: Ketchup, mustard, mayo, or BBQ sauce can elevate your burger. Try to combine some together with some spices and make your own sauce. We make most of our sauces by starting out with some top-tier ingredients to ensure we have a unique blend and original-tasting burger sauce that will have you coming back for more!
Perfect Burger Tips
To create the perfect burger yourself at home, follow these tips:
- Season Well: Season the patty generously with salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Preheat the Grill or Pan: Ensure your cooking surface is hot before adding the patties. This helps achieve a good sear, enhancing the overall flavor of your patty.
- Grill the Patty Last: Cook the patty last and serve/top after cooking to retain its juices and have it served warm.
What Makes Burgers Tasty
Several elements contribute to what makes burgers tasty:
- Umami: This savory flavor is enhanced by ingredients like mushrooms and tomatoes.
- Balance of Flavors: A combination of salty, sweet, sour, and savory elements can create a balanced and delicious burger.
- Texture Contrast: A mix of textures—from the crunch of fresh vegetables to the juiciness of the patty and the gooeyness of the cheese-style toppings—adds interest and satisfaction.
- Freshness: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference in taste.
Make Your Own Plant-Based Patty
For those who prefer to make their own patties, the same principles apply. Here’s how to make delicious vegan patties:
- Flavorful Patty: Use a mix of beans, grains, vegetables, and seasonings to create a flavorful patty. Black beans, lentils, and chickpeas are popular bases, and a good binder like vital wheat gluten, breadcrumbs, or oats.
- Juiciness: Add moisture with ingredients like finely chopped vegetables, soy sauce, or vegan Worcestershire sauce.
- Seasonings and Sauces: Season well and use vegan-friendly sauces to enhance flavor.
Creating a great burger involves attention to detail and a balance of flavors and textures. By focusing on high-quality ingredients, proper preparation, and seasoning, you can craft a burger that satisfies everyone. We have mastered that at Beesechurgers, and we are excited to see you come try our amazing burgers and experience the Beesechurgers difference for yourself!