Bean burgers have evolved from a niche vegetarian option to a mainstream favorite, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meat patties. But beyond simply slapping one between two buns, lies a world of culinary possibilities. Deciding what to eat with your bean burger can elevate the entire experience, turning a simple meal into a flavorful and satisfying feast. This guide will explore a plethora of pairings, from classic sides to innovative accompaniments, ensuring your bean burger is never lonely again.
Classic Sides: The Tried and True Companions
Sometimes, the best choices are the most familiar. These classic sides provide a comforting and reliable foundation for your bean burger meal. They’re easy to prepare, widely available, and complement the savory flavors of most bean burger varieties.
Fries: A Timeless Pairing
It’s hard to argue with the appeal of fries. Whether you prefer crispy, thin-cut fries, chunky steak fries, or sweet potato fries, they offer a satisfying textural contrast to the softer bean burger. Consider seasoning your fries with a blend of spices to add extra flavor and personality. Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of chili powder can transform ordinary fries into a culinary delight.
Ketchup is the quintessential dipping sauce, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Aioli, sriracha mayo, or even a simple Dijon mustard can elevate your fry-dipping experience. The creamy texture of aioli contrasts beautifully with the crispy fries, while the heat of sriracha mayo adds a fiery kick.
Salads: A Fresh and Light Counterpoint
A crisp, refreshing salad offers a welcome contrast to the heartiness of a bean burger. Opt for a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cleanse your palate between bites. A more substantial salad, such as a Caesar salad or a Mediterranean salad, can provide a complete and balanced meal.
Consider adding grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, to your salad for added flavor and nutrients. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds can also enhance the textural complexity of the salad.
Coleslaw: A Creamy and Tangy Delight
Coleslaw, with its creamy and tangy dressing, is a classic side dish that pairs surprisingly well with bean burgers. The sweetness of the cabbage and carrots complements the savory flavors of the burger, while the creamy dressing adds a touch of richness.
Experiment with different coleslaw variations. A vinegar-based coleslaw, with its sharp and tangy flavor, can cut through the richness of the burger. Alternatively, a coleslaw with added fruits, such as apples or cranberries, can provide a burst of sweetness and freshness.
Beyond the Basics: Creative and Flavorful Sides
While classic sides are always a good option, venturing beyond the familiar can unlock a world of exciting flavor combinations. These creative sides offer a more adventurous dining experience, showcasing the versatility of bean burgers.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: A Summertime Staple
Grilled corn on the cob, with its smoky char and sweet kernels, is the perfect side dish for a summer barbecue featuring bean burgers. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory flavors of the burger, while the smoky char adds a touch of complexity.
Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a simple yet delicious side. Alternatively, experiment with different toppings, such as chili lime butter, parmesan cheese, or crumbled cotija cheese.
Roasted Vegetables: A Nutritious and Flavorful Choice
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavors. Root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, are particularly delicious when roasted.
Toss the vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and spices before roasting for added flavor. Rosemary, thyme, garlic, and paprika are all excellent choices. Roasting vegetables is a great way to use up leftover produce and reduce food waste.
Quinoa Salad: A Protein-Packed Powerhouse
Quinoa, a complete protein, is a nutritious and versatile grain that can be used in a variety of salads. A quinoa salad with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette is a healthy and satisfying side dish for bean burgers.
Add black beans, corn, and avocado to your quinoa salad for a Southwestern-inspired twist. Alternatively, add cranberries, pecans, and feta cheese for a more festive flavor.
Global Inspirations: International Flavors to Complement Your Bean Burger
Take your bean burger experience on a culinary journey with these globally inspired sides. These dishes showcase the versatility of bean burgers and demonstrate how they can be paired with flavors from around the world.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: A Fiesta of Flavors
Inspired by the popular Mexican street food, this salad combines grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors of this salad pair perfectly with the savory flavors of bean burgers.
Use fresh corn kernels for the best flavor. If you don’t have access to fresh corn, frozen corn kernels can be used as a substitute.
Greek Salad: A Mediterranean Delight
A Greek salad, with its fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, is a light and refreshing side dish that complements the heartiness of bean burgers. The salty feta cheese and briny olives add a burst of flavor, while the crisp vegetables provide a satisfying crunch.
Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano. Add a sprinkle of dried oregano for an extra touch of flavor.
Asian Slaw: A Crunchy and Flavorful Side
An Asian slaw, with its shredded cabbage, carrots, and edamame, is a crunchy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with bean burgers. The sesame-ginger dressing adds a touch of sweetness and umami, while the toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch.
Add shredded chicken or tofu to the slaw for a more substantial meal. Alternatively, add chopped peanuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
Beyond the Bun: Deconstructing the Bean Burger
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a bean burger is not between two buns. Deconstructing the burger and serving the components separately can be a fun and creative way to enjoy the flavors.
Bean Burger Bowls: A Customizable Feast
Create a bean burger bowl by serving the burger crumbled over a bed of rice, quinoa, or lettuce. Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, salsa, sour cream, and cheese.
Bean burger bowls are a great way to customize your meal to your own preferences. Add different sauces, such as sriracha mayo, teriyaki sauce, or peanut sauce, for added flavor.
Bean Burger Salad: A Lighter Option
Create a bean burger salad by serving the burger crumbled over a bed of mixed greens. Add your favorite salad toppings, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers.
Dress the salad with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing. Consider adding grilled vegetables or roasted nuts for added flavor and texture.
Sauces and Condiments: The Final Flourish
No bean burger is complete without the perfect sauce or condiment. These flavorful additions can elevate your burger to the next level, adding moisture, tang, spice, or sweetness.
Classic Condiments: Ketchup, Mustard, and Mayonnaise
Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise are the classic condiments for a reason. They’re readily available, versatile, and complement the flavors of most bean burgers.
Experiment with different variations of these classic condiments. Dijon mustard, spicy brown mustard, and honey mustard all offer different flavor profiles. Similarly, sriracha mayonnaise and chipotle mayonnaise can add a touch of heat.
Creative Sauces: Aioli, Pesto, and Tzatziki
For a more adventurous flavor experience, try adding aioli, pesto, or tzatziki to your bean burger. These sauces offer a burst of flavor and can transform a simple meal into a culinary masterpiece.
Aioli, a garlic-infused mayonnaise, adds a creamy and savory element. Pesto, a basil-based sauce, adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor. Tzatziki, a yogurt-based sauce, adds a cool and refreshing element.
Spicy Sauces: Sriracha, Hot Sauce, and Chipotle Sauce
If you like a little heat, try adding sriracha, hot sauce, or chipotle sauce to your bean burger. These sauces can add a fiery kick and awaken your taste buds.
Start with a small amount of sauce and add more to taste. Be careful not to overdo it, as some sauces can be quite spicy.
Choosing what to eat with your bean burger is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different combinations of sides, sauces, and condiments to find your perfect pairing. With a little creativity and imagination, you can transform a simple bean burger into a delicious and satisfying meal. Remember to consider the flavor profile of your bean burger when choosing your accompaniments. A spicy bean burger might pair well with a cool and refreshing side, while a milder bean burger might benefit from a more flavorful sauce or condiment. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and explore the world of bean burger pairings!
What are some healthy and delicious side dishes that complement bean burgers?
Bean burgers offer a fantastic base for a nutritious meal, and choosing the right side dishes can elevate both the flavor profile and nutritional value. Consider options like a vibrant quinoa salad with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette. This combination provides a boost of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a well-rounded and satisfying accompaniment.
Alternatively, a simple side of steamed or grilled asparagus with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice provides a contrasting texture and fresh flavor. Asparagus is low in calories and high in antioxidants, complementing the heartiness of the bean burger without weighing you down. Both of these choices focus on whole foods and avoid overly processed ingredients.
Can I pair bean burgers with different types of salads?
Absolutely! Bean burgers are versatile and pair well with a variety of salads, each offering a unique taste and textural experience. A classic option is a mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens and the juicy sweetness of the tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the savory burger.
For a more substantial salad, consider a hearty kale salad with roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, and toasted pecans. This combination offers a balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, while also providing a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The heartiness of the kale stands up well to the bean burger, creating a filling and nutritious meal.
What are some good grain-based side dishes to serve with bean burgers?
Beyond the traditional bun, grains can provide a satisfying and nutritious base for your bean burger. Consider serving your burger atop a bed of fluffy couscous, seasoned with herbs like parsley and mint, and a drizzle of olive oil. Couscous is quick to prepare and provides a light and airy texture that complements the density of the bean burger.
Another excellent option is a pilaf made with brown rice, vegetables like carrots and peas, and a flavorful broth. Brown rice is a whole grain that offers more fiber and nutrients than white rice, making it a healthier choice. The added vegetables contribute to the overall nutritional profile and create a visually appealing side dish.
Are there any specific dipping sauces or condiments that go well with bean burgers and side dishes?
Dipping sauces and condiments can add a final layer of flavor complexity to your bean burger meal. For a creamy and tangy option, try a homemade garlic aioli, made with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. This sauce pairs well with both the burger and many side dishes, adding a rich and satisfying element.
Alternatively, a vibrant chimichurri sauce, made with fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, provides a zesty and herbaceous flavor that complements the savory burger. It also works well as a dressing for salads or a topping for roasted vegetables, tying the whole meal together.
What are some kid-friendly side dish options for bean burgers?
Encouraging children to eat healthy can be made easier with kid-friendly side dish options. A classic choice is sweet potato fries, baked instead of fried for a healthier twist. Season them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or paprika for added flavor. Kids often enjoy the sweetness and familiar texture of sweet potato fries.
Another great option is corn on the cob, either grilled or boiled, and served with a little butter or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Corn is naturally sweet and appealing to children, and it provides essential nutrients. Cutting the corn kernels off the cob can make it easier for younger children to eat.
How can I make my bean burger meal more interesting and flavorful?
To elevate your bean burger experience, focus on incorporating diverse flavors and textures into your meal. Experiment with different spice blends in your bean burger recipe, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder, to create a unique flavor profile. Consider adding toppings like caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or a dollop of guacamole for added interest.
Furthermore, explore different types of buns or bread alternatives. Try using a whole-wheat pita pocket, a lettuce wrap, or even portobello mushroom caps as a bun. Varying the bread or bun provides a different textural element and can cater to different dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what you enjoy most.
Are there any specific side dishes that complement bean burgers with a particular flavor profile (e.g., spicy, smoky, or southwestern)?
The choice of side dish can significantly enhance the experience of bean burgers, especially when tailoring it to a dominant flavor. For a spicy bean burger, consider a cooling side like a creamy avocado slaw with lime and cilantro. The avocado’s richness will tame the heat, while the lime and cilantro provide a refreshing contrast.
If your burger has a smoky flavor, opt for a side dish like grilled corn salad with black beans and a chipotle dressing. The smoky notes will complement each other, and the black beans add a textural element mirroring the bean burger. Alternatively, for a Southwestern-inspired burger, a side of Mexican rice or roasted poblano peppers would be a perfect pairing, completing the regional flavor profile.