What Is the Closest Thing to a Veggie Burger?
Every veggie burger enthusiast knows that there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a juicy, delicious, and overwhelmingly plant-based patty. But what if you're not quite ready to make the full leap from meat to vegetables? Alternatively, what if you're curious about finding the veggie burger that most closely mirrors the texture, taste, and mouthfeel of a traditional beef burger? This article delves into the various plant-based patties that can satisfy your craving for a burger, and help you find the closest approximation to a veggie burger that meets your preferences.
Friends and Family
When it comes to trying different veggie burgers, it's often a matter of "friends and family." Ask around and find out which patty your loved ones or colleagues prefer. Are they fans of the familiar, like a Beyond Burger or Impossible Burger, which promise to mimic the taste and texture of beef? Or do they go for a more traditional soy-based product, like those made by Boca or Quorn? Alternatively, are they drawn to unique and innovative plant-based alternatives, like seitan-based patties or those made from legumes and grains?
The Perfect Veggie Burger
While some people might consider Beyond or Impossible Burgers the closest thing to a meat burger due to their similarities in texture, taste, and appearance, there are other options that might better suit your taste buds and dietary preferences. Here are some of the top contenders:
1. Beyond Burger
The Beyond Burger, created by Beyond Meat, has gained widespread popularity for its ability to closely replicate the flavor, texture, and appearance of a traditional beef burger. Each patty is made from plant-based ingredients, including pea protein, rice protein, and coconut oil. Beyond Meat's unique combination of these ingredients results in a patty that retains its shape during cooking and flakes nicely when cooked, similar to a juicy beef patty. The Beyond Burger's taste is designed to mimic beef, with a savory umami flavor that complements classic burger toppings perfectly.
2. Impossible Burger
The Impossible Burger, also by Impossible Foods, takes a different approach. This plant-based patty is packed with heme, a film-like compound that gives it a meaty flavor and texture. Heme is what gives cooked meat its distinct aroma and taste. The Impossible Burger is also designed to retain its shape during cooking and slice easily, making it a great choice for gourmet burgers. Its taste and texture make it an excellent alternative for those seeking a more authentic meat-like experience.
3. Quorn Meatless Burger Patty
The Quorn Meatless Burger Patty is another excellent option for those looking for a plant-based patty with a familiar texture. Made from mycoprotein, a protein derived from fungus, this patty is rich in protein and offers a moist and tender mouthfeel. It's a great option for those who prefer a more vegetarian-friendly taste while still achieving that grilled burger taste and texture.
4. Boca Beyond Flavorless Shmancyburger
For those who want a classic soy-based patty that doesn't have the "bean-like" flavor commonly associated with traditional soy burgers, the Boca Beyond Flavorless Shmancyburger is a perfect choice. This patty is made from soy-free ingredients and has a mild flavor that can be seasoned with any burger toppings to achieve your desired taste. Its texture is similar to beef, making it a versatile option that can be used in a variety of burger creations.
5. Good bye Burger
The Good bye Burger, a seitan-based patty, provides a unique texture and flavor that some might find more akin to meat than other plant-based alternatives. Seitan, also known as wheat meat, is made from wheat gluten, giving it a tougher and more chewy texture. This patty can be seasoned with various spices and herbs, much like traditional meat, making it a great option for burger enthusiasts who want a more meat-like experience.
The Key Ingredients
To find the closest thing to a veggie burger, it's essential to look at the key ingredients used in each patty. While the Beyond and Impossible Burgers rely heavily on plant-based proteins like peas and rice, the Quorn patty uses fungal protein. Boca's patty is soy-free and can be flavored with various spices. Seitan-based patties like the Good Bye Burger are made with wheat gluten, giving them a tougher and chewier texture.
Conclusion
The closest thing to a veggie burger depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. Whether you prefer a traditional soy-based patty, a meat-like texture from seitan, or a patty that closely mimics the taste and texture of beef, there is a plant-based burger option that can satisfy your cravings. So, ask around and try different patties to find the one that meets your needs and tastes best. Happy grilling!