Burgers are one of the most beloved food items worldwide. Be it a quick meal on the go or a grand barbecue party, burgers have always been the go-to comfort food for many. While the classic burger with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, sometimes, we all crave a little diversity in our plates. So, what can you mix with burgers to jazz things up?
In this article, we will explore the perfect burger accompaniments that will take your burger game up a notch. From savory toppings like bacon and crispy onion rings to sweet options like pineapple and caramelized onions, we will provide you with endless possibilities to spruce up your burger and tantalize your taste buds. So, sit tight and discover the art of mixing and matching with burgers.
The Classic Pairings: Ketchup, Mustard, and Mayo
Burgers are a classic American food that is enjoyed by many. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be customized to fit your individual taste buds. One of the most common ways to enjoy a burger is by pairing it with classic condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayo. These three condiments are the go-to options for most people and are a great way to add flavor to your burger.
Ketchup is a tangy and sweet condiment that is perfect for burgers. It is made from tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices and can be used in a variety of recipes. Mustard, on the other hand, is a spicy and tangy condiment made from mustard seeds, vinegar, and other spices. It adds a bold flavor to burgers and is an excellent option for those who love a bit of heat. Lastly, mayo is a creamy and savory condiment that adds a richness to burgers. It is made from eggs, oil, and vinegar and is a great way to balance out the flavors of the burger. These classic condiments are sure to make your burger more enjoyable and flavorful.
Elevated Condiments: Homemade Aioli, Pesto, and Spicy Salsa
When it comes to burgers, throwing on some ketchup and mustard just won’t cut it anymore. Elevate your condiment game by making your own homemade aioli, pesto, or spicy salsa to pair with your burger.
Aioli is a garlic mayonnaise sauce that is easy to make and can be customized with various herbs and spices. Pair it with a bacon cheeseburger for an extra punch of flavor. Pesto, made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, and parmesan cheese, is a delicious addition to a turkey burger or veggie burger. And if you’re looking for a kick, whip up a spicy salsa with tomatoes, jalapeño peppers, onion, and cilantro to top off your beef burger. Experiment with different combinations and find your new go-to burger condiment.
Cheese, Please: Unconventional Options like Feta, Blue Cheese, and Gouda
When it comes to burgers, cheese is almost always a must-have. While the classics like cheddar and American are always delicious, why not mix it up a bit with some unconventional options? Feta, for example, adds a tangy and salty flavor to a burger that pairs well with the juiciness of the meat. Blue cheese is another great option, especially for those who love a bold and funky taste. The creamy texture of the cheese also adds an extra layer of indulgence to the burger. And let’s not forget about Gouda – this Dutch cheese has a nutty and smoky flavor that is perfect for those who love a little bit of a savory kick in their burgers.
The beauty of mixing unconventional cheeses with burgers is that it adds a new dimension of flavor to an already fantastic dish. It also opens up a world of possibilities for toppings and condiments – for example, a feta and avocado burger with a cucumber and tzatziki sauce, or a blue cheese and bacon burger with caramelized onions. So next time you’re grilling up some burgers, don’t be afraid to try something new with your cheese choices – your taste buds will thank you.
Beyond Beef: Creative Patty Alternatives like Turkey, Veggie, or Portobello
If you’re looking to switch things up from the classic beef patty, there are plenty of alternative options available. Whether you’re trying to incorporate more veggies into your diet or just looking for something different, turkey, veggie, and portobello burgers can make for delicious options.
Turkey burgers are a leaner alternative to beef, but can still be packed with flavor. You can season them with herbs and spices like sage, thyme, or cumin, and add toppings like avocado or caramelized onions to make them even more delicious. Veggie burgers, made with ingredients like beans, mushrooms, and quinoa, can also be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. And for a meatless option, portobello mushrooms can be grilled and seasoned just like a regular beef patty for a deliciously juicy and flavorful meal. So, don’t be afraid to get creative with your burger options and try out some of these alternatives for a tasty twist on a classic meal.
The Ultimate Toppings: Bacon, Fried Egg, Onion Rings, and Avocado
When it comes to burgers, sometimes simple toppings just won’t cut it. If you’re looking for the ultimate burger experience, consider adding bacon, a fried egg, onion rings, and avocado to take your meal to the next level.
Bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with the juicy beef patty. Adding a fried egg creates a rich and creamy texture that takes the burger from ordinary to extraordinary. Onion rings provide a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness that compliments the savory flavors of the burger. Lastly, avocado provides a creamy and fresh note that balances out the richness of the other toppings. With these ultimate toppings, you’ll create a memorable burger experience that will have you craving more.
International Influences: Global Flavors and Toppings like Kimchi, Guacamole, or Tikka Masala
International influences have become increasingly popular in the food world, and burgers are no exception. From Korean kimchi to Mexican guacamole, these global flavors and toppings can add excitement and variation to the classic burger. Kimchi, a Korean fermented cabbage dish, can be used as a topping or mixed into the burger patty for a tangy, savory twist. Guacamole, made from avocado, can add a creamy texture and fresh flavor to a burger. Additionally, it pairs well with spicy ingredients like jalapeños.
For those seeking bold, unique flavors, Indian-inspired tikka masala can be a fantastic addition to a burger. This spicy sauce made with warm spices like cloves, paprika, and coriander can be used as a topping, marinade, or mixed into the burger patty to deliver a robust flavor profile. While usually associated with Indian cuisine, this flavor has been incorporated into food around the globe to create a fusion of the cultures that resulted in unique and delicious dishes. Adding these international flavors to your burger can not only change up the routine, but also provide a daring adventure to your taste buds!
Beer and Burger: Perfect Pairings for Different Styles of Brews.
Beer and burgers are a match made in heaven. There’s nothing better than pairing a juicy burger with a cold brew. But, did you know that there are different styles of beer that pair better with certain kinds of burgers? Here’s a quick guide:
For a classic cheeseburger, try pairing it with a light lager or pilsner. The clean and crisp taste of the beer won’t overpower the taste of the burger and cheese. For a spicy burger with jalapenos or hot sauce, pair it with a hoppy IPA. The bitterness of the beer will help balance out the heat. If you’re having a big, juicy burger with lots of toppings, go for a stout or porter. The richness of the beer will complement the flavors of the burger.
In short, there’s a beer for every type of burger. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different combinations to find your perfect pairing. Cheers to burgers and beers!
The Bottom Line
Burgers have been an all-time favorite for many people, and there are endless options to pair with them. It also gives a chance to add an extra flavor to the burger patty and create your unique dish. With the addition of multiple toppings, sauces, and sides, burgers can be taken to the next level and make an excellent meal for any occasion.
Whether it’s classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese or more experimental options like guacamole, pineapple, or even peanut butter, there are countless ways to mix with burgers to create a delicious meal. The versatility of burgers makes it a perfect dish to experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your perfect match. So, next time you make burgers, don’t hesitate to mix things up and explore new flavors to create the perfect burger that you, your family, and friends will enjoy.