Great Grain Burgers: A Deliciously Wholesome Alternative
In the ever-evolving world of culinary creations, finding a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers can often feel like a quest. Enter the Great Grain Burgers, a recipe that not only satisfies the craving for a hearty meal but also introduces a wholesome combination of grains and vegetables, ensuring that you enjoy every bite without the meat. This delightful dish, originally featured in Light and Tasty (February/March 2002), offers a delightful way to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your lunch or snack options.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Servings: 12
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 264.3 |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 13.1 mg |
| Sodium | 544.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 36.7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 3.6 g |
| Protein | 13.5 g |
Ingredients
To create these satisfying burgers, gather the following ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Brown rice |
| 1/2 cup | Bulgur |
| 1 cup | Water |
| 1/4 cup | Fresh mushrooms, chopped |
| 2 | Large eggs, or egg substitute |
| 2 cups | Old-fashioned oats |
| 3/4 cup | Part-skim mozzarella cheese |
| 1 cup | Low-fat cheddar cheese |
| 1/4 cup | Onion, finely chopped |
| 1/3 cup | Fat-free cottage cheese |
| 1/2 cup | Fresh parsley, chopped |
| 1/4 tsp | Salt |
| 2 tsp | Dried basil |
| 1/8 tsp | Celery seed |
| 2 tsp | Canola oil |
| 1 head | Lettuce leaves, for serving |
| 2 | Tomatoes, sliced |
Preparation Instructions
The preparation of Great Grain Burgers involves a series of thoughtful steps that bring together the flavors and textures in a way that is both enjoyable and fulfilling. Follow the instructions below to create these delicious burgers:
-
Cook the Grains:
Begin by combining the brown rice, bulgur, water, and a pinch of salt in a large saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for approximately 30 to 40 minutes or until the rice is tender. Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely before refrigerating it for an additional 30 minutes. This cooling step is essential to ensure that the burgers hold their shape during cooking. -
Prepare the Mushroom Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh mushrooms, old-fashioned oats, part-skim mozzarella cheese, low-fat cheddar cheese, and finely chopped onion. This mixture will add a depth of flavor and texture to the burgers. -
Blend the Wet Ingredients:
Using a food processor, blend the fat-free cottage cheese and egg substitute until you achieve a smooth consistency. This blend will help bind the ingredients together and provide moisture to the burgers. -
Combine All Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled rice mixture with the mushroom blend, fresh parsley, salt, dried basil, and celery seed. Gently fold in the blended cottage cheese and egg substitute mixture, ensuring that all ingredients are thoroughly combined. -
Shape the Patties:
Using a measuring cup, take 1/2 cup of the mixture and shape it into a patty. Repeat this process until you have formed 12 patties. Each patty should be uniform in size to ensure even cooking. -
Cook the Patties:
In a non-stick skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of canola oil over medium heat. Carefully add four patties to the skillet, allowing them to cook for 5 minutes on each side or until they are browned and crisp. Once cooked, remove the patties and repeat the process with the remaining patties, adding a teaspoon of oil as needed. -
Assemble the Burgers:
To serve, place each patty on a hamburger roll, topping it with crisp lettuce leaves and slices of tomatoes. Feel free to add any additional toppings you desire, such as pickles, onions, or your favorite condiments, to enhance the flavor profile. -
Final Touch:
Please note that the preparation time includes cooking and cooling the rice. The cooking time mentioned pertains solely to the frying of the patties.
Conclusion
These Great Grain Burgers not only provide a nutritious and satisfying meal option, but they also offer a creative way to enjoy a meatless dish that’s packed with flavor and essential nutrients. Perfect for lunch or a delightful snack, these burgers are sure to impress family and friends alike, encouraging everyone to embrace the joys of wholesome eating. So gather your ingredients, prepare the burgers, and savor the deliciousness of this unique recipe, knowing that you’ve created something truly special for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy!
