How to make Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers

Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers and bison meat are both ingredients that have garnered attention in the culinary world for their distinctive qualities. Portobello mushrooms, known for their large size and meaty texture, make an excellent substitute for meat or can be used to enhance a dish with their rich, savory flavor. Bison, on the other hand, is revered as a leaner alternative to beef, with a richer and slightly sweeter taste. It is also considered to be more environmentally friendly, as bison are often pasture-raised and can contribute to grassland ecosystem maintenance.

The combination of Portobello mushrooms and bison in a burger is a creative fusion that caters to a desire for gourmet experimentation and healthier versions of classic dishes. The Portobello mushroom can serve multiple roles within this culinary creation: it can be a component of the patty, either minced or as a binding agent, or it can take the place of the bun for those seeking a low-carb option. When integrating it into the patty, the mushroom not only adds moisture and a depth of umami flavor but also extends the meat, which can be beneficial given the higher cost of bison compared to traditional meats.

Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers recipe

Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers

In constructing a Portobello mushroom bison burger, there is plenty of room for creative seasoning and additional ingredients. One might include herbs such as rosemary or thyme to complement the earthy tones of the mushroom, or perhaps smoked paprika or cumin for a depth of flavor that pairs well with the robustness of bison. The burgers can be grilled or cooked on a stovetop, and are often served with complementary accompaniments such as caramelized onions, blue cheese, or a tangy aioli to balance the savory notes of the burger.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 532 kcal

Equipment

• 1  large skillet

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb bison ground to taste sea salt to taste black pepper ground
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp parsley chopped
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tbsp coconut aminos
• 4 large portobello mushroom caps
• 1 cup arugula lettuce 1 medium avocado peeled sliced

Instructions

 

• Heat grill pan to medium-high heat.
• In a large bowl, mix the first 4 ingredients (bison through parsley).
• Form bison mixture into patties.
• Place burgers on the grill and cook for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, until the center of the burgers are only slightly pink in the center.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, heat coconut oil.
• To the oil, add the coconut aminos and the mushrooms.
• Cook 5 minutes, on each side, until tender.
• Layer mushroom, burger, arugula and avocado and serve.

Keyword Mushroom

Tips for making about Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers

Cooking tips

1. Choosing Ingredients:
   • For the bison burgers, select high-quality ground bison meat for the best flavor and texture.
   • When choosing Portobello mushrooms, look for ones that are firm, plump, and free of bruises. The large cap size is perfect for using as a “bun” or including inside the patty.
2. Preparing the Mushrooms:
   • Clean the Portobello mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp paper towel. Avoid soaking them in water as they can become soggy.
   • If using the mushroom caps as a bun, remove the stems and gills to create more space for the burger and toppings.
3. Preparing the Bison Patties:
   • Mix the ground bison with your choice of seasonings, like garlic, salt, pepper, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
   • Bison meat is leaner than beef, so be careful not to overwork the meat mixture to avoid tough patties. Form the patties gently and make an indentation in the center to help them cook evenly.
4. Cooking the Burgers:
   • Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. Bison should be cooked more like steak than beef hamburgers, so aim for medium-rare to medium to keep it from drying out.
   • Cook the Portobello mushrooms simultaneously, either in the same grill or pan or separately. They should be tender and have grill marks when done.
5. Checking for Doneness:
   • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the bison patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.

Serving suggestions

• Side Dishes: Complement your burgers with a side of sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Salad: A fresh arugula or mixed greens salad with a simple balsamic vinaigrette can offer a peppery flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the bison burger.
• Toppings: Consider offering a variety of toppings such as caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, ripe avocado slices, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato. These not only add layers of flavor but also different textures to enhance the burger experience.
• Condiments: Provide a selection of condiments including traditional options like ketchup and mustard, as well as gourmet choices like truffle mayonnaise or aioli to allow guests to customize their burger to their liking.
• Cheese Options: Offering a cheese selection like blue cheese, smoked gouda, or sharp cheddar allows for different flavor pairings that melt beautifully on top of the hot bison patty.
• Beverages: Pair your bison burgers with a robust craft beer that can stand up to the hearty flavors, such as an IPA or a porter. For wine enthusiasts, a glass of bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec, would be a fine pairing.
• Low-Carb Alternatives: For guests watching their carb intake, use the Portobello mushroom caps as buns. It’s a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the burger without the bread.
• Dessert: Finish off the meal on a high note with a dessert that complements the savory burger—perhaps a fruit sorbet or a slice of New York-style cheesecake.

Top 5 FAQs about Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers

• What makes Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers different from regular burgers? Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers offer a unique blend of flavors and textures, combining the rich, meaty taste of bison with the savory depth of Portobello mushrooms. Bison meat is leaner and sweeter than beef, while Portobello caps can serve as a low-carb bun alternative or be incorporated into the patty for added moisture and umami flavor.
• How do I properly cook a Bison Burger to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful? Since bison is leaner than beef, cook the patties over medium-high heat to medium-rare or medium to avoid drying them out. Form the patties gently to keep them tender and make an indentation in the center for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
• Can I use Portobello mushrooms as buns for these burgers? Absolutely! The large cap size of Portobello mushrooms makes them perfect for use as a “bun” for those seeking a low-carb option. Just clean the mushrooms by wiping with a damp paper towel, remove the stems and gills, and grill alongside the burgers until tender.
• What are some good seasonings and toppings for Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers? Season the bison meat with herbs like rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, or cumin to complement the earthy mushroom flavor. Toppings such as caramelized onions, blue cheese, or a tangy aioli can balance the savory notes of the burger.
• Is Bison meat more environmentally friendly than beef? Yes, bison is considered to be more environmentally friendly because bison are often pasture-raised and can contribute positively to grassland ecosystem maintenance.

In conclusion, Portobello Mushroom Bison Burgers are a gastronomic delight that offer a healthier and more eco-friendly alternative to traditional beef burgers without compromising on taste or satisfaction. The Portobello mushroom provides versatility in this dish, whether used as a juicy patty component or as a low-carb bun replacement. Its meaty texture and savory flavor complement the lean and sweet notes of the bison meat exquisitely.