Build the Best Burger

The humble hamburger has come a long way. This great American comfort food is recently featured in fine dining burger bars and can cost a hefty price for food connoisseurs. You don’t have to look far or be a billionaire to get the best burger—make it at home!

Go layer-by-layer and learn how to build the best burger for you, and your diet.

Buns

Start with the right foundation. For a heartier taste and healthier burger, go with a whole wheat or grain bun instead of white. Using artisan bread like ciabatta or specialty sourdough rolls gives a more upscale taste.

Protein

Beef is the typical meat used for burgers. For a new taste, opt for tuna and salmon burgers, or go for white meat with lean ground pork, turkey or chicken. If you’re committed to red meat, bison is a flavorful alternative with less fat.

Once you’ve made your selection, don’t just shape and slap the patty on the grill. Use dry rubs or liquid marinades to add flavor, and extra nutrition with fresh herbs.

Cheese

If cheeseburgers are your favorite, try using low-fat cheeses to cut the fat. No-fat varieties give an unsatisfying un-melted texture. Further ensure better melting by stuffing the cheese inside for insulation and better consistency.

Toppings

Don’t just stick to the standard lettuce and tomato—iceberg lettuce doesn’t even have a high nutritional value. Spinach and romaine are both high in vitamins and provide a more distinctive taste.

Be creative by going beyond leafy vegetables. Mushrooms give a burger an earthy feel, while spicy and sweet peppers deliver almost any ethnic flavor you crave. Don’t limit yourself to just vegetables either—try fruits like pineapple and mango for a nutritional twist.

Condiments

The perfect condiment always complements and finishes off the best burgers. Use fresh cracked mustard, to homemade specialty spreads with fresh herbs; you can cover the full spectrum of spicy, savory and sweet. Just avoid things like high fat mayonnaise or sugary ketchup.