Adding ground flaxseed to homemade burgers makes them 'noticeably juicier' while also boosting their nutritional content, according to food expert Lily Keeling, senior recipe development manager at Green Chef.
The Surprising Hack for Juicier Burgers
Lily Keeling said: 'Ground flaxseed is probably one of the last ingredients people would consider adding to a burger or meatball mixture. But flaxseed can absorb and retain several times its weight in moisture, making it perfect for creating a burger that's noticeably juicier.'
For best results, use approximately one to 1.5 tablespoons of ground flaxseed per 500g of mince. A 500g pack of mince typically yields about four burgers. Adding more than 1.5 tablespoons can result in an unusual taste, so it's important to stick to the recommended amount.
Flavor and Nutritional Benefits
Keeling added: 'The good news is you won't end up with a burger that tastes weird or unusual. When used in small amounts, the flavour is barely noticeable.'
The real bonus is the added nutritional value: flaxseed provides a source of fibre and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which, for such a small addition, is pretty impressive.
Where to Buy and How to Store
Flaxseed is widely available in supermarkets, including Sainsbury's, for approximately £2.20 per 200g bag. This versatile kitchen staple can also be mixed into water, scattered over porridge, yoghurt, or smoothies. However, it deteriorates rapidly, so it must be kept in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness.
