Burgers and Hot Dogs

These days most restaurants offer “veggie burgers” on their menu. Unfortunately, most contain dairy (cheese) and eggs. For example, one very popular item with restaurants is the Gardenburger made by Gardenburger, Inc. of Portland, Oregon, which contains dairy and egg whites. Even if the restaurant makes their own “veggie burgers,” you still need to ask about the ingredients.

Burger King recently introduced a burger made from grains, vegetables (no soy), and spices called the “BK Veggie.” It does contain some oil (and I’ve been told it is grilled on the same grill as their beef burgers – what risks could this bring along with the taste of the real thing?). The burgers are made to order, so ask for the right toppings, like onions, pickles and tomatoes; and maybe some ketchup and mustard. Each patty is 120 calories with 4 grams of fat (30% fat). The bun is 160 calories and 4 grams of fat (17% fat). No trans-fats are used.

Chili’s (Grill and Bar – Family Restaurant) also serves a black bean veggie burger, which does contain some egg whites. In very small print under their list of regular burgers on the menu, you will find the option “Black bean burger substituted upon request.” Be sure to tell them no cheese and no mayo. Ask for mustard, ketchup, pickles, onions and lettuce, instead.

Giants’ fans can get soy hot dogs at the baseball park in San Francisco. A bun made from refined wheat flour is your choice. Load your veggie dog up with mustard, ketchup, relish and onions (and sauerkraut, if you must) and you will never miss the meat. Many other ballparks around the country also offer “veggie dogs”.