How to cook beyond burgers and other plant-based burgers
Plant-based foods have come a long way in terms of flavor and variety. Gone are the days when they were considered bland and boring. If you’ve been hesitant to try meatless alternatives, especially plant-based burger patties like the Beyond Burger, this article will guide you through the cooking process. We’ll explore different methods of cooking Beyond Burger patties and other meatless burger options. We’ll also provide tips and tricks, discuss how to determine when the patties are done, and suggest different ways to use these delicious plant-based alternatives.
What are plant-based burgers?
While plant-based burgers are not new to the grocery store, they are still not widely known to all consumers. You may have come across brands like Beyond Burger or Morning Star Patties without fully understanding what they are. Some people claim that plant-based burgers taste inferior to their meat-based counterparts. But these preconceptions are often misguided.
Manufacturers of plant-based burgers are focusing on creating products that mimic the meaty texture and taste of traditional burgers. Instead of using meat, they use plant-based ingredients to achieve the desired characteristics. For example, lentils can replace red meat, aquafaba (chickpea brine) acts as a binder, and coconut oil adds moisture. These ingredients, combined with spices, create flavorful and nutritious plant-based burger patties.
It’s worth noting that not all plant-based burgers are identical to the famous Beyond Burger products. Different brands may use different cooking methods and ingredients, resulting in different flavor profiles. This diversity is one of the appealing aspects of plant-based burgers, as it allows for a range of culinary experiences.
Benefits of plant-based burgers
Plant-based burgers offer several advantages that may convince you to consider them as an alternative to meat-based burgers. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Environmental Sustainability: Plant-based burgers contribute to a more sustainable planet. Animal agriculture is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 51% of global emissions. By choosing plant-based options, you can reduce water consumption by up to 75%, land use by up to 94%, and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 87% compared to traditional burgers.
- Cruelty-free: Choosing a plant-based burger helps fight animal cruelty. Many people have seen disturbing videos exposing inhumane animal farming practices. By choosing plant-based alternatives, you can ensure that you’re not contributing to these practices.
- Flavorful options: Despite the misconception that plant-based burgers lack flavor, they are actually quite delicious. Spices and the natural flavors of the vegetables used in these burgers contribute to their flavor. Plus, when paired with umami-rich sauces, plant-based burgers can be just as satisfying as meat-based ones.
- Healthier lifestyle: Plant-based burgers offer a potentially healthier option compared to their meat counterparts. They are free of hormones, saturated fats and trans fats. As a result, they pose fewer health risks and can be part of a well-rounded diet. In addition, plant-based proteins have been shown to be of higher quality than animal-based proteins, offering additional nutritional benefits.
- Higher quality ingredients: Plant-based burgers are typically made with high-quality plant-based ingredients, such as non-GMO products. In contrast, traditional meat burgers often contain different cuts of meat, making it difficult to determine their origin and quality.
- No pink slime: Unlike processed meats, plant-based burgers are free of additives like pink slime. Pink slime is a mixture of fatty animal remains treated with ammonia gas to kill bacteria. By choosing plant-based alternatives, you can avoid consuming these additives.
Nutritional value of plant-based burgers
Plant-based burgers offer comparable nutritional value to traditional beef burgers while providing additional health benefits. Here are some key nutritional facts:
- Calorie and micronutrient equivalence: Plant-based burgers provide similar amounts of calories, protein, iron and micronutrients as traditional beef burgers. They offer a healthier fat mix, with no trans or saturated fats.
- Lower risk of food-borne illness: Because plant-based burgers don’t contain meat, the risk of food-borne illnesses associated with meat consumption is significantly reduced.
- Potential reduction in cancer risk: The absence of hormones and chemicals in plant-based ingredients may reduce the risk of certain cancers associated with meat consumption.
- Cardiovascular benefits: Plant-based burgers may help increase levels of good cholesterol (HDL), providing cardiovascular benefits.
How to cook plant-based burgers
Cooking plant-based burgers is relatively simple, but there are a few factors to consider to ensure optimal results. Different brands of plant-based burgers may have specific cooking instructions, so always check the package for guidance. Here are a few general tips:
Cooking Beyond MeatBurgers
To cook Beyond Burger patties, follow these steps
- Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
- Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Place the Beyond Burger patties on the heated surface.
- Cook for approximately 4 minutes on each side. Thinner patties may require less cooking time.
- Use a spatula to gently flip the patties, taking care not to break them.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Remove the patties from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking other plant-based burger patties
While cooking instructions for different plant-based burger patties may vary, here are some general guidelines:
- Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
- Lightly oil the cooking surface.
- Place burger patties on the heated surface.
- Cook according to the brand’s instructions, usually about 4-6 minutes per side.
- Flip the patties carefully with a spatula.
- Make sure the internal temperature reaches the brand’s recommended level.
- Allow patties to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Ways to use plant-based burger patties
Plant-based burger patties are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Classic Burger: Serve the plant-based patties on a bun with traditional burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and condiments like ketchup and mustard.
- Burger sliders: Make smaller patties and serve them on slider buns for a bite-sized version of a burger.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Use the cooked patties as a sandwich or wrap filling. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a delicious plant-based meal.
- Salad Topping: Crumble cooked patties and use as a protein-rich topping for salads.
- Stir fries and skillet meals: Cut patties into smaller pieces and add to stir-fries or skillet meals for added texture and flavor.
- Pasta and rice dishes: Crumble the patties and add them to pasta or rice dishes for a meaty texture and to enhance the overall flavor.
- Appetizers: Create plant-based sliders or mini burgers as appetizers for parties or gatherings.
- Breakfast: Serve plant-based burger patties with traditional breakfast items like scrambled eggs, toast, and avocado for a hearty morning meal.
BOTTOM LINE
Plant-based burgers, including Beyond Burger patties, offer a delicious and sustainable alternative to traditional meat-based burgers. By learning how to cook them properly and exploring different ways to use them, you can enjoy flavorful and nutritious plant-based meals. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to reduce your meat consumption, plant-based burgers offer a versatile and satisfying dining experience. Embrace the world of plant-based options and discover the joys of delicious meat-free burgers.
FAQS
How do I cook Beyond Burger patties?
To cook Beyond Burger patties, preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat, lightly oil the cooking surface, place the patties on the heated surface, and cook for about 4 minutes per side. Thinner patties may require less cooking time. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for thorough cooking.
Can I cook plant-based burger patties on the grill?
Yes, you can cook plant-based burger patties on a grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat, oil the grates to prevent sticking, place the patties on the grill and cook according to the brand’s instructions. Remember to carefully flip the patties and make sure they reach the recommended internal temperature.
Are there other ways to cook plant-based burgers besides frying and grilling?
Yes, there are alternative cooking methods for plant-based burgers. You can bake them in the oven, deep fry them, or even cook them on a stovetop griddle. Cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the method you choose, so be sure to check the brand’s specific instructions.
How do I know when plant-based burger patties are done?
The internal temperature is the best indicator of when plant-based burger patties are fully cooked. For most brands, the recommended internal temperature is 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the center of the patty. Patties should also be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
Can I freeze plant-based burger patties?
Yes, you can freeze plant-based burger patties. If you have leftovers or want to make them ahead, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or place them in airtight freezer bags. They will keep in the freezer for up to three months. To defrost, place the patties in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Are plant-based burgers healthier than traditional meat burgers?
Plant-based burgers may offer some health benefits over traditional meat burgers. They are generally lower in saturated fat and free of cholesterol and hormones. Plant-based burgers also provide fiber and can be a source of plant-based protein. However, the overall nutritional value depends on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used in each brand’s product.