The patty can either make or ruin a vegan burger. No quantity of appetizing sauce or sautéed vegetables can disguise a patty that is bland and has a mushy consistency. Fortunately, plant-based substitutes like the Impossible Burger have brought vegan burgers closer to mimicking real beef than previously possible. However, there is no ideal substitute for meat, and even this soy-based solution has its shortcomings. (For instance, Impossible Burgers have a higher sodium content and lower protein content than beef.) Rather than aiming for flawlessness, it is more beneficial to work with what is at hand. The secret to crafting the finest vegan burger lies in compressing the patty down — in smash burger fashion.
A basic smash burger recipe serves as a minimalistic take on the traditional American burger. There are no embellishments present — just pickles, mustard, and cheese accompany the slim patties. Compressing the patties on the grill enhances a rich, charred flavor and a crunchy texture. This also applies to vegan patties such as Impossible and Beyond Burgers. One of the most common pitfalls individuals encounter with veggie burgers is overlooking the texture, but compressing them is an easy solution, and this method instantly boosts your vegan burger skills.
Suggestions for smashing your vegan patty
To further amplify your vegan burger, incorporate some finely diced onions. These onions will swiftly cook into the patty and caramelize, contributing a delightful sweet and savory taste. Layer several of these patties on a burger bun and dress with pickles, mustard, and ketchup for simplicity, or personalize with avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or vegan mayo to make it uniquely yours.
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