Nobody wants to bite into a dry, chewy burger, but a simple kitchen ingredient can transform homemade patties into juicy, flavorful delights. According to registered nutritionist and Senior Recipe Development Manager at Green Chef, Lily Keeling, ground flaxseed is the secret to achieving a succulent burger that also packs extra nutritional value.
Why Flaxseed Works
Keeling explains that ground flaxseed can absorb and retain several times its weight in moisture, making it ideal for burger mixtures. She says: "Ground flaxseed is probably one of the last ingredients people would consider adding to 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 more juicy."
Available at Aldi for £1.79, ground flaxseed is an affordable addition to your pantry. For best results, use one to one and a half tablespoons per 500g of mince, which yields approximately four burgers. Keeling assures that the flaxseed does not alter the taste: "The good news is you won’t end up with a burger that tastes weird or unusual. When used in a small amount, the flavour is barely noticeable."
Simple Preparation Steps
To make the burgers, combine the mince with ground flaxseed, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and an egg. Mix thoroughly and shape into patties. Refrigerate the patties until ready to cook; this helps them maintain their structure during cooking.
When ready to cook, preheat a large frying pan over high heat for a few minutes. Reduce the heat slightly before adding the patties. Use a spatula to lightly press them down—avoid pressing too hard to retain juices. Cook for about four minutes on each side, or longer if you prefer well-done burgers. Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving in a bun with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, ketchup, or cheese.
