Are you a vegetarian looking for a mouthwatering burger? Look no further! Culver’s, the renowned fast-food chain, has recently added the Harvest Veggie burger to its year-round menu. This delectable veggie delight has already surpassed sales expectations since its official launch on September 28th.
The Culinary Art Behind Culver’s Menu
Culver’s menu development team, led by chef Quinn Adkins, comprises culinary experts who came from high-end, fine dining kitchens. Despite the apparent contrast between delicate dishes like steak tartare and Culver’s famous ButterBurger, the menu development process demands precision, flavor layering, quality control, and cost considerations.
Crafting Culver’s menu items is a captivating blend of art and science. Adkins and his team, known as the “gatekeepers,” meticulously curate the selection of burgers, fries, and concrete mixers that grace Culver’s restaurants across the United States. Each item must be easily reproducible, marketable, and consistent in both taste and price point.
The Journey to Culver’s Veggie Burger
Introducing a new core menu item requires extensive testing and a deep understanding of customer demand. The Harvest Veggie burger, for instance, underwent four years of development and testing before it made its debut. Interestingly, Madison, Tampa, and Minneapolis were chosen as test markets, successfully catering to the growing demand for vegetarian options.
Culver’s wasn’t entirely devoid of vegetarian options in the past. However, the lack of consistency among their offerings prompted Adkins and his team to create a unique, flavorful, and easily identifiable veggie patty. Unlike many plant-based burgers available today, Culver’s Harvest Veggie burger celebrates vegetables, cheese, and grains rather than aiming for a meat-like texture.
The Flavorful Composition of the Harvest Veggie Burger
The masterpiece that is the Harvest Veggie patty features bell peppers, roasted corn, mushrooms, and chickpeas, all melding together to create a delightful Southwestern flair. Queso fresco and Wisconsin parmesan provide a salty, creamy touch, while wheat berries lend a nutty texture. The deliberate inclusion of dairy and gluten pays homage to Culver’s strong association with the dairy state and their affinity for dairy farmers.
It’s important to note that the Harvest Veggie burger is not marketed as a “health” food, as it contains cheese, milk, eggs, and other ingredients that elevate its flavor profile. The patty itself consists of 260 calories, and when served with a bun, mayo, and veggie toppings, it reaches 590 calories – a mere 200 more than Culver’s classic ButterBurger.
Culver’s Commitment to Quality and Growth
Culver’s commitment to quality extends beyond their menu. Throughout the pandemic, Culver’s adaptability and customer-centric approach allowed them to thrive. Their contact-light drive-thru service, featuring comfort foods like cheese curds and milkshakes, positioned them favorably during challenging times.
While the restaurant industry faced supply chain disruptions, Culver’s supply chain management team demonstrated remarkable resilience. Their dedication ensured a steady stream of groceries, transforming their operations and maintaining stability.
As a growing brand, Culver’s has expanded its presence in the southeastern United States, with Florida set to receive six new locations. With its rigorous training program at ButterBurger University, Culver’s continues to produce successful franchisees and has embraced virtual training during these unprecedented times.
The Harvest Veggie Burger: A Step Towards Plant-Forward Foods
By introducing the Harvest Veggie burger, Culver’s showcases its commitment to evolving and catering to a diverse range of palates. While other fast-food chains offer plant-based meat substitutes, Culver’s boldly embraces vegetables, cheese, and grains, creating an entirely unique culinary experience.
The Harvest Veggie burger serves as an opening line of dialogue with guests, encouraging further exploration and customization. As Adkins suggests, it pairs deliciously with bacon, reminding us that personal preferences are always welcome at Culver’s.
So whether you’re a vegetarian or simply seeking a delightful twist on a classic burger, head to Hook’d Up Bar and Grill and indulge in the sensational Harvest Veggie burger by Culver’s. Prepare to be amazed and satisfied by the tantalizing flavors that await you!