Vegan Big Mac: A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic Favorite

Introduction: The Vegan Big Mac offers a delicious and cruelty-free alternative to the iconic fast-food favorite. This plant-based version captures all the flavors and textures of the original, but with wholesome, vegan ingredients. From the tangy special sauce to the crisp lettuce and savory plant-based patties, every component of this Vegan Big Mac is carefully crafted to satisfy your cravings while aligning with your ethical and dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

For the Vegan Patties:

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Special Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • Vegan hamburger buns
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced pickles
  • Thinly sliced onions
  • Vegan cheese slices (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegan Patties:
    • In a large mixing bowl, mash the black beans until mostly smooth. Add cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, flax egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties. Place the patties on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  2. Make the Special Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
  3. Cook the Vegan Patties:
    • Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through. Optionally, melt vegan cheese slices on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking.
  4. Assemble the Vegan Big Macs:
    • Toast the hamburger buns until lightly golden. Spread a generous amount of special sauce on the bottom bun. Place a cooked patty on top, followed by shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, onions, and another dollop of special sauce. Top with the remaining bun.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve the Vegan Big Macs immediately, with your favorite side dishes such as fries, potato chips, or a side salad. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this plant-based twist on a classic fast-food favorite!

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 Vegan Big Mac
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 63g
  • Dietary Fiber: 11g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 17g

Smart WW Points:

  • Each Vegan Big Mac is approximately 10 Smart WW Points, considering the ingredients used and serving size.

Conclusion: Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of a Big Mac while staying true to your vegan lifestyle with this incredible Vegan Big Mac recipe. With homemade vegan patties, tangy special sauce, and all the classic fixings, this plant-based twist on a fast-food classic is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the satisfaction of sinking your teeth into a delicious and cruelty-free burger that’s bursting with flavor and wholesome ingredients.