A Vegan Big Mac Recipe, an innovative twist on a classic, layers juicy, plant-based patties between soft, sesame-topped buns. This creation is adorned with crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and finely chopped onions, all in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that captures the essence of the beloved original while being kind to the planet.
WHY IT’S A MUST-TRY?
- Utilizes high-quality, plant-based patties, ensuring a satisfying, meaty texture without the meat.
- Incorporates a homemade, dairy-free special sauce, rich in flavor, perfectly mimicking the iconic taste.
- Features fresh, crisp lettuce and tangy pickles, adding a refreshing crunch to every bite.
- It offers a guilt-free version of a fast-food classic, making it a hearty choice for vegans and non-vegans alike.
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Craving the iconic taste of a Big Mac but committed to a vegan lifestyle? You’re not alone. The quest for a delicious, plant-based alternative can feel daunting, especially when fast-food cravings hit. That’s where the Vegan Big Mac Recipe comes in—a game-changer for vegans and the veg-curious alike.
My journey to find a satisfying substitute led me down a path of countless trials, but finally, a breakthrough. This recipe captures the essence of the beloved burger without compromising on taste or texture.
With this guide, you’ll unlock the secrets to crafting a mouth-watering vegan Big Mac at home, ensuring your cravings are met with a hearty, guilt-free solution.
What Are Vegan Big Macs?
Vegan Big Macs are a plant-based rendition of the classic Big Mac burger, renowned for its layered, savory appeal. This version swaps traditional meat patties for alternatives crafted from ingredients like beans, lentils, or soy, ensuring a meaty texture without animal products.
The iconic, creamy Big Mac sauce is reimagined with vegan mayonnaise and spices, maintaining its rich flavor. Sandwiched between vegan-friendly buns and complemented with lettuce, onions, pickles, and cheese substitutes, the Vegan Big Mac is a delicious, ethical choice for those looking to enjoy fast-food favorites in a cruelty-free manner.
Fact– The original Big Mac was introduced in 1967, and the vegan version has become increasingly popular, offering a cruelty-free twist on this fast-food classic without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe Directions
Big Mac Sauce Preparation
- Combine all ingredients for the Big Mac Sauce in a bowl.
- Stir until well combined.
- Season to taste.
- Set aside in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Middle Bun Preparation
- Using a serrated knife, carefully shave off just the bottom of an extra bottom bun to create your middle bun (Club).
Burger Patties
- Shape your burger patties to match the circumference of your buns.
Toasting Buns
- Heat oil or vegan butter in a pan over medium heat. Alternatively, toast dry for a lighter option.
- Grill buns until lightly golden brown.
- Set aside on a wire rack to prevent them from getting soggy.
Cooking Patties
- Add a little oil to the same pan or grill and increase heat to medium-high.
- Add the burger patties, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Grill for 3 minutes until the patties are nicely browned, then flip.
Melting Cheese
- After flipping the patties, place a slice of vegan cheese on each.
- Cover with a melting dome or lid. Add a splash of water before covering to help steam the cheese.
- Wait until the cheese has melted.
Assembling the Vegan Big Mac
- Layer the bottom bun with sauce, then add lettuce.
- Place the first burger patty on top, followed by onions.
- Add the middle bun, more sauce, pickles, another layer of lettuce, the second burger patty, a final dollop of sauce, and then cap with the top bun.
Serving
- Your Vegan Big Mac is now ready to enjoy!
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations in Patties
- Black Bean Patties: For a heartier, fiber-rich option.
- Mushroom Lentil Patties: Offers a meaty texture with earthy flavors.
- Quinoa Patties: A lighter, protein-packed alternative.
Sauce Tweaks
- Spicy Sauce: Add hot sauce or sriracha to the vegan Big Mac sauce for a kick.
- Smoky Sauce: Incorporate liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor.
Cheese Options
- Different Vegan Cheese: Experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda slices for varied flavors.
- Nutritional Yeast: For a cheese-free, nutty flavor boost.
Additional Toppings
- Avocado Slices: Adds creaminess and a dose of healthy fats.
- Caramelized Onions: Introduces a sweet, rich depth.
- Jalapeños: Brings a spicy crunch for those who enjoy the heat.
- Tempeh Bacon: Offers a smoky, crunchy texture.
Extra Layers
- Extra Patties: For a more substantial burger, stack more patties.
- Vegan Egg: A vegan egg substitute can add a unique, breakfast-style twist.
Bun Alternatives
- Lettuce Wraps: A low-carb, gluten-free option that adds crunch.
- Different Vegan Buns: Try whole wheat, pretzels, or gluten-free buns for variety.
Vegetable Substitutions
- Portobello Mushroom Caps: Marinated and grilled, these make a juicy, meaty patty alternative.
- Grilled Eggplant Slices: Offer a smoky flavor and satisfying texture when used as patties.
- Beet Patties: Their deep red color and earthy taste can mimic the look and feel of beef.
- Cauliflower Steaks: Seasoned and roasted, they provide a hearty, meat-free patty option.
- Zucchini Slices: Light and slightly sweet, perfect for adding an extra layer of freshness.
- Sweet Potato Rounds: Baked or grilled, they add a hint of sweetness and nutrients.
- Spinach Leaves: A great addition for extra greens, adding texture and a nutrient boost.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, they bring a luxurious feel and healthy fats to the burger.
Quick Tip– Marinate your plant-based patties in soy sauce, garlic, and smoked paprika before cooking for a juicier Vegan Big Mac patty. This adds depth and moisture.
Best Side Dishes
- Sweet Potato Fries A healthier twist on classic fries, offering a sweet and savory flavor.
- Vegan Coleslaw Creamy and tangy, adding a refreshing crunch.
- Air Fryer Zucchini Chips Light and crispy, perfect for a guilt-free snack.
- Quinoa Salad A protein-packed option with a refreshing mix of vegetables and a zesty dressing.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad Fresh and light, with a hint of acidity.
- Kale Chips Crunchy and salty kale chips are a nutritious alternative to traditional chips.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caramelized on the outside, tender on the inside, with a touch of smoky flavor.
- Avocado Corn Salad Creamy avocado and sweet corn offer a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.
How To Serve?
- Warm the Buns: Toast the buns lightly for a warm, crispy texture that complements the soft interior.
- Layer Thoughtfully: Start with sauce on the bottom bun, followed by lettuce, cheese, and the patty, for a balanced taste and texture in every bite.
- Double Stack: For an authentic Big Mac experience, include a middle bun layer and repeat the toppings before adding the second patty.
- Ample Sauce: Don’t skimp on the vegan Big Mac sauce; a generous dollop ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.
- Customize Toppings: Offer a variety of additional toppings, such as pickles, onions, and tomatoes, on the side, allowing guests to personalize their burger.
- Serve Immediately: Assemble the burger just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and buns.
- Pair with Sides: For a complete meal, accompany the Vegan Big Mac with classic sides like fries or a salad.
- Presentation Matters: Place the burger on a plate with garnishes around it for a visually appealing presentation.
- Offer Napkins: Vegan Big Macs can be just as messy as their non-vegan counterparts; provide plenty of napkins for a hands-on experience.
- Enjoy with Drinks: Pair with your favorite vegan milkshake, soda, or iced tea for a refreshing complement to the savory burger.
Quick Tip– To ensure your Vegan Big Mac patties stay juicy, brush them with olive oil before grilling. This helps lock in moisture.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Refrigerate Separately: To maintain freshness, store cooked patties, sauce, and cut vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Patties: Vegan patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for a month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Sauce: The vegan Big Mac sauce can last in the fridge for up to a week, its flavors melding over time.
- Buns: Keep buns at room temperature in a bread box or sealed bag for up to 3 days.
- Make Ahead: To ease assembly, prepare the patties and sauce a day in advance. Reheat the patties in a pan or the microwave.
- Assembly: For the best taste, assemble the Vegan Big Mac before serving to keep the buns crispy and the vegetables fresh.
Fact– The original Big Mac’s special sauce, a key component, was inspired by “1000 Island dressing.” The Vegan Big Mac recipe is adapted with plant-based ingredients for a cruelty-free twist.
Time-Saving Tips
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop lettuce, onions, and pickles beforehand. Store them in the fridge to streamline assembly.
- Use Ready-Made Patties: Opt for high-quality store-bought vegan patties to save prep and cooking time.
- Batch Make the Sauce: Prepare a larger quantity of the vegan Big Mac sauce and refrigerate it. It keeps well and can be used in multiple meals.
- Assemble an Assembly Line: Set up your ingredients in the order they’ll be used. This makes the assembly process quicker and more efficient.
- Double or Triple the Recipe: Make more patties and freeze them. They can be thawed and cooked directly for a quick meal.
- Toast Buns in Bulk: If you’re making multiple burgers, toast the buns in the oven on a large tray instead of individually on a pan.
- Utilize Kitchen Gadgets: Use a food processor to finely chop onion pickles and prepare the sauce, saving on manual chopping time.
- Microwave to Reheat: If using pre-cooked or frozen patties, quickly reheat them before giving them a final sear on the pan for that crispy exterior.
Yummy Vegan Big Mac Recipe- A Classic Twist On Original!
The Vegan Big Mac is a cruelty-free twist on the iconic burger. It features plant-based patties, dairy-free cheese, and a signature sauce that mimics the original’s flavor. Stacked with fresh lettuce, onions, and pickles, it’s sandwiched between sesame seed buns. This version maintains the beloved taste and texture, offering a guilt-free indulgence for vegans and meat-eaters alike.
4
servings10
minutes8
minutes600
kcal30
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients List
2 Patties 2 Plant-Based Meat Patties
2 Slices 2 Vegan American Cheese Slices
1/2 Cup 1/2 Shredded Iceberg Lettuce
5-6 Slices 5-6 Dill Pickle Slices
2 Tbsp 2 Diced Onion
1 Set 1 Sesame Bun + Bottom Half of another Bun
1 Cup 1 Vegan Mayo
1/4 Cup 1/4 Ketchup
2 Tbsp 2 Yellow Mustard
2 Tbsp 2 Sweet Relish
1 Tsp 1 Onion Powder
1 Tsp 1 Garlic Powder
1/2 Tsp 1/2 Smoked Paprika
1 Tbsp 1 White Vinegar
Step-By-Step Directions
- Big Mac Sauce Preparation
- Combine all ingredients for the Big Mac Sauce in a bowl.
- Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Season according to taste.
- Place in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Middle Bun Preparation
- Use a serrated knife to carefully shave off the bottom of the extra bottom bun to create your middle bun (Club).
- Burger Patties
- Press or form your burger patties to match the circumference of your buns for a perfect fit.
- Toasting Buns
- Lightly grill the buns in oil, vegan butter, or dry toast until they are lightly golden brown.
- Set aside on a wire rack to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Cooking Patties
- Add a little oil in the same pan or on a griddle over medium-high heat.
- Place the burger patties in the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Grill for about 3 minutes until the patties are browned, then flip.
- Adding Vegan Cheese
- After flipping the patties, place a slice of vegan cheese on each.
- Cover with a melting dome to melt the cheese more effectively. Tip: Add a little water before covering to help steam the cheese.
- Assembly
- Start with the bottom bun, then add sauce, lettuce, the first burger patty, and onions.
- Place the middle bun on top, followed by more sauce, pickles, lettuce, the second burger patty, another dollop of sauce, and finally, the top bun.
- Serving
- Your Vegan Big Mac is now ready to enjoy!
- Equipment List
- Skillet or Grill Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Toaster or Oven (for buns)
- Whisk (for sauce)
Notes
- For a richer sauce, let it sit overnight in the fridge.
Shaving the bottom bun ensures a better sauce-to-bread ratio.
Matching patty size to bun creates a uniform bite.
Toasting buns prevents them from becoming soggy.
Cooking patties on medium-high heat sears them, locking in flavors.- Adding water under the melting dome steams the cheese, ensuring it melts evenly.
Layering sauce on each bun piece maximizes flavor.
Let the assembled burger sit for a minute before serving to let the flavors meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make The Vegan Big Mac Gluten-Free?
You can make a gluten-free Vegan Big Mac by using gluten-free buns and ensuring that your plant-based patties and other ingredients like vegan cheese and sauces are certified gluten-free. Many stores offer gluten-free alternatives for these components. It’s important to read labels carefully to avoid cross-contamination with gluten.
How Can I Add More Protein To My Vegan Big Mac?
To increase the protein content of your Vegan Big Mac, consider using patties made from high-protein sources such as lentils, chickpeas, or black beans. Additionally, you can add a layer of tempeh bacon or a smear of hummus on the bun. These not only boost the protein but also add unique flavors and textures.
Is It Possible To Make The Vegan Big Mac Sauce Soy-Free?
Yes, creating a soy-free Vegan Big Mac sauce is straightforward. Most vegan mayonnaises are made with soy, but soy-free alternatives can be used as a direct substitute. Additionally, ensure that the ketchup, mustard, and sweet relish you use do not contain soy products. Reading ingredient labels is key to avoiding soy.
Can I Prepare Vegan Big Macs In Advance For A Party?
Preparing Vegan Big Macs in advance is possible and can be a great time-saver for parties. You can pre-cook the patties and prepare the sauce and other toppings beforehand. Store everything separately in the refrigerator. Before serving, quickly reheat the patties, toast the buns, and assemble the burgers. This method keeps everything fresh and reduces last-minute prep stress.
How Can I Ensure My Vegan Big Mac Tastes As Close To The Original As Possible?
Focus on the sauce and the patties to closely mimic the taste of the original Big Mac. For the sauce, follow traditional Big Mac sauce recipes but use vegan substitutes for mayonnaise and other non-vegan ingredients.
For the patties, aim for a texture and flavor that resembles beef by choosing high-quality vegan patties or making your own with ingredients like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or seitan. Toasting the buns and layering the ingredients in the traditional order also contributes to an authentic experience.
