What Would Be in a Burger Aside from Beef?

Introduction

When it comes to burgers, beef is often the go-to ingredient due to its rich taste and chewy texture. However, there are numerous other options that can provide equally delicious and versatile results. In this article, we explore alternative ingredients like ground turkey, pork, and black bean burgers, and discuss how to make them just as tasty as traditional beef burgers.

Ground Turkey as a Beef Substitute

Ground turkey is often hailed as a healthier alternative to ground beef, and with good reason. High in protein and low in fat, turkey burgers can still deliver a satisfying meal without the guilt of red meat. While it may not have the same rich flavor as beef, it can still be delicious with a few tricks up your sleeve.

Starting with seasoned ground turkey, follow a classic 3:2:1 seasoning ratio to bring out the best in your burger. Here's how to make a flavorful turkey burger:

1 pound ground turkey 3 tablespoons of your favorite seasoning (e.g., salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder) 2 tablespoons of garlic 1 tablespoon of onion powder

Note: Do not overwork the ground turkey when forming the patties; this can make them dry.

Pork Butt for a Flavorful Burger

Pork is a fantastic choice for burgers, especially the shoulder cut, commonly known as pork butt. Unlike ground turkey, pork has a naturally sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Preparing pork butt involves removing the bone and excess fat, then grinding it to create a gourmet burger experience.

To grill or pan-sear a pork burger to perfection, follow these steps:

Remove the bone and trim away any excess fat from the pork butt. Cook the pork butt to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), checking with a meat thermometer. Grind the pork and use it to make your patties. Cook the patty to the desired temperature, approximately 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. Cook the patty on a hot pan with butter for added flavor.

The sweet and mellow flavor combined with a more fatty mouthfeel of pork makes for a truly spectacular burger experience.

Black Bean Burgers for the Plant-Based Crowd

For those looking for a fully plant-based option, black bean burgers are a great choice. These burgers are packed with flavor and are both nutritious and tasty. To make a simple and delicious black bean burger, follow this recipe:

Black Bean Burger Recipe

1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, rinsed and drained 1/2 cup of oats 1/4 cup of chopped onion 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast 1 teaspoon of cumin 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon of salt 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions:

In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or a potato masher. Add the oats, onion, nutritional yeast, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Combine well and form into patties about 2 inches in diameter and an inch thick. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or vegetable oil. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and crispy.

Black bean burgers are a fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans, but they can also appeal to meat-eaters who want to add more plant-based options to their diet.

Conclusion

The next time you find yourself craving a burger, consider stepping beyond beef. Whether you opt for ground turkey, pork, or black bean burgers, there are plenty of delicious options that can satisfy your cravings without the use of beef. These alternative ingredients can help you create burgers that are just as tasty and fulfilling as traditional beef burgers, while also offering a variety of nutritional benefits.