Boca blunder? Beer it!

So, you tried some Morning Star black bean burgers and realized they were amazing. So, you went to Sam's Club and discovered they only carry the Original Boca Burger for veggie burgers...and you bought a case. You didn't do that? Well, I did.

Discovery: Original Boca Burgers consumed as burgers seem a bit like eating canned cat food. Ugh. Well, I am here to report that there IS hope when stuck with a bulk case of these faux-meat patties.

First step: remove any perception that the little buggers will ever be consumed as burgers or in sandwich format. The sooner this reality is acknowledged, the faster possibilities can take shape.

Second step: acknowledge that you now have a bulk supply of low-fat protein nicely packaged in single servings, taking the guess work out of measurement.

Third step: expand your culinary skills by thinking of ways to introduce "protein chunks" and "protein crumbles" into other meals. A half-step to this is to simply add your new wonder protein with beef in things like chili and sloppy joe--it's kinda like adding bread to the meatloaf, but with more nutritional value. However, it really can be a protein substance on it's own, added to things like salads and stir fry.

Final step: get creative with the protein preparation. This requires SEASONING for sure! I'm pretty simple, typically using original Mrs. Dash. However, I'm sure you can get as wild and crazy as you want with your own seasoning sensations, including fresh herbs, spices, peppers, and such. Just watch out for seasonings that contain salt/sodium, as you start to infringe upon the health factor of this protein substance. Since they are frozen, I suggest a quick thaw in the microwave (60-90 seconds should work). Then, toss 'em in a skillet with some oil or Smart Balance and seasonings, then fry 'em up just like ground beef.

Want to add a nice little extra flavor? Add a splash (well, 2 splashes) of your favorite beer to the frying process (and, of course, consume the rest of the beer). The faux meat substance absorbs the flavor quite nicely, and a malty amber will add a bit of caramelization to the mix (while decreasing the healthiness just a tad). My favorite right now is Dos Equis Amber, aged several months.

From there, add it to some veggie-based or whole-grain pasta entrees as you wish. I recommend consuming immediately, but it will store OK in the fridge (the texture just gets a bit chewy in my opinion).

I will admit that I've actually gone from being repulsed by these things to actually looking forward to my "Boca protein" additions. All it takes is completely disregarding the format in which they were prepared for consumption.

Oh, and for the record, the Morning Star Spicy Black Bean burgers really are fabulous...as burgers/sandwiches!

Cheers!