American cuisine has been known for its traditional beef burger patties. Many restaurants and bars now offer veggie- and meat-based options for burgers as customers are becoming more health-conscious. We looked into possible substitutes for beef burgers and came up with 10 tasty options that will spice up your menu.
Veggie Burgers
Impossible Burger
The Impossible Burger is a new entrant to the burger market in 2019. The Impossible Burger gained popularity quickly thanks to the support from Burger King. Both herbivores, as well as omnivores, now love it. Customers who order the Impossible Burger will get the meaty pink colour, juice, seasoned smoky flavours, and consistency of a real meat burger.
These are the benefits of Impossible Burgers:
- Made from soy protein but still provides 19 grams of protein per portion
- Available in ground packages to increase cooking versatility
- It contains no cholesterol
Beyond Burger
Beyond Meat created the Beyond Burger in 2016. It has been receiving more attention due to its similarity with the Impossible Burger. Pre-made burger patties can be bought for the Beyond Burger, reducing prep time and speeding up cooking. Beyond Meat Burger uses pea protein instead of soy-based and has a variety of natural flavours to make it taste just like real beef.
These are the benefits of Beyond Meat Burgers
- Available in a burger patty and ground beef forms
- This product contains beet juice extract for a meaty colour
- Made from pea protein and other non-GMO-certified ingredients
Black Bean Burgers
Black beans are a great meat substitute because of their dense texture. Black bean burgers can be made with legumes, vegetables and various fresh and dried spices. This will give you a unique twist on the classic hamburger.
Here are some black bean benefits:
- Promotes better digestive health
- Helps stop blood sugar spikes
- Combating cardiovascular disease
Quinoa Burgers
Quinoa, a spinach and Swiss chard seed, is also known as Quinoa. This “superfood” can be used as a base for your hamburgers and create a nutritious meal.
These are the benefits of Quinoa
- All 9 essential amino acids are provided
- Fibre content is high
- Antioxidants are abundant
Chickpea Burgers
Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, can be easily mashed into a hearty patty. Chickpeas can be used to complement a variety of other ingredients. You can make chickpea burgers as you like.
Here are some of the benefits of chickpeas
- A good source of protein
- Saturated fats are low
- Rich in fibre
Alternative Meat Burgers
Turkey Burgers
Turkey burgers are a popular non-beef burger option. To make it taste like a burger, you can add spices, sauces and toppings. You can buy turkey burger meat pre-ground to save time and make delicious burgers.
These are the health benefits of Turkey:
- A good source of protein
- Vitamin B6 is abundant
- Low-fat content
Salmon Burgers
Salmon is one of the most nutritious burger options. If you eat low-fat, salmon has many health benefits. Salmon burgers can be enjoyed as a fillet, or you can combine shredded salmon with vegetables and aiolis.
Here are some salmon benefits:
- Omega-3 fatty acids can help fight inflammation
- Cardiovascular health promotion
- Potassium supports healthy blood pressure
Bison Burgers
Because of their lean Meat, bison burgers have been enjoying a boom in popularity. Bison meat is good for your heart and contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc. Bison burgers are prepared the same way as regular beef burgers but can be topped with lettuce, tomato, mayo or mustard, or any other toppings you choose.
Find out more about the health benefits of bison meat.
- High protein content
- It has fewer calories and fat
- Provides Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Chicken Burgers
This protein is a great alternative to beef. Pre-ground chicken is not recommended when purchasing chicken for burgers. For a better texture, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can use your meat grinder.
These are some of the health benefits chicken has:
- Contains cholesterol-lowering vitamins
- Phosphorus supports bones and teeth
- High protein content
Pork Burgers
Pork is a good source of protein and can be paired with sweet and tangy flavours. Grill pork burgers with barbecue sauce and Asian sauces such as hoisin or teriyaki.
Here are some pork benefits:
- Zinc vitamins support the immune system
- Iron is a great source
- B12 vitamins promote brain function
