The Buzz About Burgers
April 2016
While it’s safe to say that burgers are a perennial favorite on any menu, it’s not so safe to assume that just any burger will satisfy diners’ changing palates. It’s no longer enough to simply offer one or two burger options. Keeping up with the hottest burger flavors and styles will help you differentiate your menu, drive traffic and increase sales. Let’s take a look at this season’s top burger trends.
- Nearly 58% of consumers say they eat a burger at least once a week. That’s a lot of beef—or is it? The fastest growing burgers on menus are chicken burgers, barbecue burgers and veggie burgers. If you’re seeking a flavorful, versatile alternative to beef, turkey burgers are a great place to start.
- Spicy burgers are hotter than ever. Be on the look out for harissa, an African chili paste predicted to be the next sriracha, and ‘nduja, a spicy Italian sausage spread. Try this Kimchi Turkey Burger with sweet chili mayonnaise to add some heat to the menu.
- Greek-influenced burgers are sizzling. The price of lamb is still relatively high, though declining. If you really want to add a Greek twist, make a burger using half ground lamb and half ground turkey for a cost-effective solution. You can also serve a Mediterranean Turkey Burger topped with Tomato, Olive and Feta Salad and cool, creamy Tzatziki Sauce.
- Protein toppings are popping up all over menus. Meaty extras like bacon, chili, pulled turkey or pulled pork make an indulgent addition sure to please patrons. Check out this BLT Mega Turkey Burger, complete with a bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper.
Browse our Culinary Center to find even more delicious burger recipes, and be sure to check our Resource Center for the latest burger trends.
SOURCES
Burger Consumer Trend Report, Technomic, 2015.
Tradition Reigns Supreme; Schweid & Sons Releases 2015 Burger Trend Report, PR Newswire. December 14, 2015.
