An Even Tastier Vegan Burger Is Just A Simple Cooking Tip Away

It's safe to say that there is an abundance of vegan burgers on the market, and with one simple technique, you can create the perfectly crisp, flavorful, crave-worthy we all know and cherish. The key is to smash your burger patties with a heavy cast-iron skillet, frying pan, or even a weighted baking dish. Basically, anything heavy enough to press the meat into a thin layer. This will result in a dramatically improved texture and flavor profile that will wow even the most ardent skeptics of vegan burgers.

When the patty is pressed down with a heavy surface over high heat, it maximizes the surface for the Maillard reaction — the chemical process responsible for unlocking the complex, savory flavors that make burgers so irresistible. Simply divide your favorite brand of plant-based meat into smaller portions, press them into thin patties, and cook them on each side until golden brown to ensure an immaculate sear (which is also key to delivering the taste of a classic Smashburger). This tried-and-tested technique will be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!

Crafting an exceptional vegan burger often lies in carefully curated toppings and condiments. While your superbly seared patty serves as a flavorful foundation, you can build upon it with layers of flavor and texture that will transform a simple plant-based burger into an indulgent masterpiece. It's time to think beyond the default lettuce, tomato, and onions, which already add freshness to any burger.

Pickled elements bring a crucial tang and crunch and are also an easy chef-recommended tip to zhuzh up a simple store-bought veggie burger. Be it classic cucumber-based pickle varieties, pickled red onions, and even jalapeños, their bright acidity cuts through the burger's richness and introduces complex flavors in every bite. Consider getting creative with ferments like kimchi or sauerkraut for globally-inspired creations with a probiotic boost!

What's a good burger without some cheesy goodness? Choose from the abundance of vegan options on the market to incorporate mouthwatering creaminess into your juicy creation. Just be aware that plant-based cheeses require some modifications in their preparation to achieve the melty, cheesy layer atop your patty. Amp it up with vegan garlic aioli or Big Mac-style sauce for a taste of nostalgia without compromise, or add in textural contrast with crispy fried onions or fried pickles for an unexpected yet desirable crunch. At the end of the day, there are endless possibilities for creating a gourmet vegan burger that checks the boxes on taste, texture, flavor, and beyond.