Gloss Find: Dr. Praeger’s California Veggie Burgers

A friend of mine recently told me that she thought “all vegetable burgers taste like paste.” It’s true that most garden burgers or vegetable burgers taste nothing like actual hamburgers, but some have distinct flavors and a unique taste.

If you’re looking for a veggie burger that tastes like a hamburger, this is probably not the option for you. Dr. Praeger’s burgers are made with carrot, onion, string beans, soybeans, zucchini, oat bran, peas, spinach and broccoli, among other natural ingredients. You can see and taste individual vegetables, which make them unique from most other burgers I’ve tried.

Dr. Praeger’s has a variety of products including homestyle pancakes, pizza bagels, meatless burgers and meatless chicken patties and nuggets.  Developed by two New Jersey-based heart surgeons, Dr. Praeger’s Sensible Foods are all natural, made with the finest ingredients available, including fresh vegetables, tasty herbs and spices. All items are certified Kosher and free of artificial flavorings or colors.

And in case you’re all wondering what I wondered from the moment I laid eyes on the box: is there really a Dr. Praeger?

Yes, Dr. Peter Praeger is a New Jersey cardiac surgeon who believes that being healthy is a combination of genetics and a balanced life style, including exercise and eating sensibly. He helped begin the company to create great foods that are both low in cholesterol and saturated fats, and are free of preservatives and artificial ingredients.

I like the California Veggie Burger, grilled or broiled, on a whole wheat pita with avocado slices. It might not stand up to its meatless counterpart, but I think I like it even better.