This recipe creates flavorful mushroom patties marinated in olive oil, garlic, and thyme, grilled until tender, then assembled on toasted buns with fresh veggies and condiments for a delicious vegetarian burger option.
It’s a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a meatless meal bursting with savoury flavours.
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Ingredients:
For the mushroom patties:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For assembling the burger:
- Burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced onions
- Cheese slices (optional)
- Condiments of your choice (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, etc.)
How To Make Mushroom Burger:
- Prepare the mushrooms: Clean the portobello mushrooms and remove the stems. Using a spoon, gently scrape out the gills from the underside of the mushrooms. This step is optional but helps prevent the burger from becoming too soggy.
- Marinate the mushrooms: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Brush this marinade over both sides of the mushrooms. Let them marinate for about 15–20 minutes to absorb the flavours.
- Grill or cook the mushrooms: You can either grill the mushrooms on an outdoor grill or cook them in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each side for about 5–7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and slightly charred.
- Assemble the burger: Toast the burger buns lightly if desired. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a cooked mushroom patty. Add sliced tomatoes, onions, cheese (if using), and any other desired toppings. Spread condiments on the top half of the bun.
- Serve: Close the burger with the top bun and serve immediately while still warm.
Feel free to customize your mushroom burger with additional toppings or sauces according to your preference. Enjoy your delicious vegetarian meal!
Tips To Make It Even Better:
Here are some tips to enhance your mushroom burger:
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh portobello mushrooms, ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and quality burger buns for the best flavor and texture.
Experiment with Marinade: Play around with the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor or a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Add Umami Boosters: Enhance the savory flavor of the mushrooms by adding ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or miso paste to the marinade.
Get Creative with Toppings: Think beyond the classic lettuce, tomato, and onion. Consider adding avocado slices, roasted bell peppers, caramelized onions, or a spicy aioli for extra flavor and texture.
Cheese it Up: If you’re a cheese lover, experiment with different types of cheese to melt over the mushroom patty. Gouda, Swiss, or blue cheese can add a deliciously creamy element to your burger.
Prevent Sogginess: To prevent the burger from becoming too soggy, consider grilling the burger buns lightly before assembling the burger. You can also layer the toppings strategically, placing the lettuce between the mushroom patty and the bottom bun to create a barrier.
Add a Crunch: Incorporate a crunchy element to contrast the soft texture of the mushrooms. Try topping your burger with crispy onion strings, pickles, or a handful of arugula.
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Best Mushrooms For Making a Veggie Burger
When it comes to making a delicious mushroom burger, the best mushrooms to use are portobello mushrooms. Their large size and meaty texture make them a perfect substitute for a traditional meat patty. Portobellos also have a rich flavor that stands up well to grilling, making them a favourite for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Another excellent choice for a mushroom burger is shiitake mushrooms. While they are smaller than portobellos, shiitakes have a robust flavor that can add depth to your burger. They work well either as a mix-in with other ingredients or as a topping.
Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, are another good option. They are essentially young portobellos and have a similar, though slightly milder, taste and texture. Creminis can be chopped up and mixed into a patty or sautéed and used as a flavorful topping.
Which Buns are the Best for a Mushroom Burger?
For a mushroom burger, you’ll want buns that can hold up to the juicy texture of the mushrooms without becoming soggy or falling apart.
Here are some options:
- Whole Wheat Buns — These buns pair well with the earthiness of mushrooms. They also tend to have a denser texture, which helps prevent them from getting soggy.
- Brioche Buns — With their rich, buttery flavor and slightly sweet taste, brioche buns can add a touch of indulgence to your mushroom burger. They have a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the meaty mushrooms.
- Sourdough Buns — offer a chewy texture that can complement the savoury taste of mushrooms. They’re sturdy enough to hold up to the juiciness of the burger without becoming mushy.
- Ciabatta Rolls — these Italian bread rolls have a crisp crust and an airy interior, making them an excellent choice for a mushroom burger. They provide a satisfying crunch while still being able to contain all the delicious ingredients.
