An Amateur Vegan Chef: Veggie Burgers

I made a yummy veggie burger today at lunch and even though there isn't much "cooking" involved I felt it was worth mentioning. I LOVE a good veggie burger. They are easy and very versatile, when made the right way and with the right brand. I haven't ventured to make my own yet, but one day! Now there is a difference in types of veggies burgers. I like to classify them as a veggie burgers which is like imitation meat, and a veggie patty which is ground up grains and veggies to make a patty. Both are great but the one I'm going to talk about today is a veggie burger. My favorite brand is the Boca vegan original. They are very tasty, not bland or "fake meat" tasting. I'm pretty picky about my imitation meat. There are plenty out there that taste just plain awful. So if you try one you don't like don't get discouraged and try this one!

I was out of buns so I made mine on a toasted onion bagel. Who doesn't love a bagel sandwhich?! (As a side note theres a bagel shop down the street from me, Posh Bagel that sells a YUMMY mediterranean sandwhich with sun dried tomato paste, hummus and veggies! If you're ever in downtown Davis you should try it) I topped mine with veganaise (which is the best thing since sliced bread!), mustard, onions, pepperoncini's, jalapenos, and pickles! Add a side of sun chips, and some trusty apple juice and you have an easy tasty lunch! As far as cooking the patty I spray my pan lightly with olive oil from my misto and cook until browned on both sides (I like mine well done so it's slightly crispy on the outside). You can easily transform this sandwhich with your favorite toppings. Saute some mushrooms and onions for a Mushroom burger, or pineapple and teriyaki sauce for an Aloha burger (my other fav!), even top with daiya for a "cheeseburger".

Also a great tip for BBQ's during the summer. If you plan on going to a BBQ with omnivores take a veggie burger with you and you don't have to worry about going hungry or gorging on potato chips, which isn't always a bad thing ;). I buy mine at Sam's Club and they come in easy prepackaged bags of 2 which also makes it easy. It's also easy to add a veggie burger to a grill without inconveniencing your hosts. I try and remember that not everyone knows what being a vegan means and I don't expect them to cater to me. =)

That's enough talking, I thought I would take you all on a tour of my dainty kitchen!! Who doesn't love a blog full of pictures!!

My kitchen table is where most of the magic happens. Chopping, preparing and EATING the most important part!