Burgers are a staple in almost everyone’s diet, whether it be a quick fix for hunger or a guilty pleasure on cheat days. Unfortunately, traditional burgers are often high in unhealthy saturated fats, which can mean bad news for your health if you regularly consume them. However, with the rise of vegetarianism and flexitarianism, there has been a growing demand for alternative burger options, and thus the veggie burger was born.
A veggie burger, as the name suggests, is a burger consisting of a patty made entirely from vegetables, without including any kind of meat. The patty can be made up of various ingredients such as legumes, grains, soy, and other vegetables and herbs. While at first, veggie burgers were not very popular and often tasted bland, modern-day veggie burgers have come a long way.
Nowadays, veggie burgers come in all shapes, sizes, and flavors — from spicy bean burgers to mushroom burgers with a texture that mimics meat. As well as being delicious, veggie burgers offer a variety of benefits, making them an ideal choice for health-conscious people. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding a veggie burger to your diet.
Low in Calories and Fat
Most veggie burgers are low in calories and fat, making them a great option for those who are watching their weight. A regular burger patty can contain as much as 17 grams of fat in just one serving. In contrast, a veggie burger patty contains only a few grams of fat, making it a healthier option. Additionally, veggie burgers often have fewer calories than a traditional beef burger, making them ideal for those trying to lose weight.
Rich in Nutrients
Veggie burgers are often rich in nutrients that are beneficial to your health. As veggie burgers are primarily made of vegetables, they are naturally high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. For example, black bean burgers are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while mushroom burgers are high in antioxidants and vitamins B and D.
Eco-friendly
Veggie burgers are also environmentally friendly. Traditional beef burgers require a lot of resources to produce, including water, land, and feed. In contrast, veggie burgers require fewer resources, making them a more sustainable option. Additionally, the production of meat can have a significant impact on the environment, including deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Choosing a veggie burger instead of meat can help to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Delicious
Finally, veggie burgers are delicious. With the rise of vegetarian and vegan cuisine, veggie burgers are no longer only for vegetarians. With a range of options available, including meat substitutes such as Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, veggie burgers have become a popular choice for people looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet. As well as tasting great, veggie burgers are easy to prepare and can be served in many creative ways.
In conclusion, veggie burgers are an excellent choice for people looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional burgers. They are low in calories and fat, rich in nutrients, eco-friendly, and most importantly, tasty. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, flexitarian, or just looking for a healthier alternative, veggie burgers are definitely worth adding to your diet. So the next time you’re looking for a burger, why not try a veggie burger? You won’t be disappointed!