Have you ever wondered what’s really in those tiny, square burgers from Krystal? Are they made with real beef or something else entirely?
Well, wonder no more. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Krystal and its famous burgers, and take a closer look at the ingredients used to make them.
From the humble beginnings of a small burger joint in Tennessee to becoming a regional fast food chain, Krystal has been serving up its signature sliders for almost 80 years. But what’s really inside those little burgers?
Let’s find out.
Is Krystal Burgers Real Beef?
Yes, Krystal burgers are made with 100% USDA beef. The company takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to ensure that their customers are getting the best possible product.
The beef used in Krystal burgers is ground and formed into small, square patties. The onions used in the burgers are dehydrated and then reconstituted with beef broth, which adds to the natural beef flavor of the patties.
Krystal’s commitment to using real beef is evident in their menu offerings. They offer a variety of burger options, including the Famous Krystal, Double Krystal, Cheese Krystal, and Double Cheese Krystal. All of these burgers are made with real beef and are grilled to perfection.
The History Of Krystal Burgers
Krystal Burgers have been a staple in the fast-food industry for almost 90 years. The company was founded in Chattanooga, Tennessee, during the Great Depression by Rody Davenport Jr. and J. Glenn Sherrill. Inspired by the success of White Castle, a fast-food hamburger chain that had been around for over a decade, Davenport and Sherrill opened the first Krystal restaurant in 1932.
The name “Krystal” was chosen by Davenport’s wife, Mary, who noticed how clean a crystal ball lawn ornament was. The name “Krystal Klean” was initially used to reflect the cleanliness of the restaurant, but it was later shortened to Krystal.
The first Krystal restaurant was a small white porcelain and stainless steel building at the corner of Seventh and Cherry Streets in Chattanooga. The menu initially consisted of bacon, eggs, homemade pies, and fresh brewed coffee. However, the standout menu item was the Krystal burger – a small, square patty served with steamed onions.
Despite being founded during a time of economic hardship, Krystal flourished due to its commitment to providing high-quality food at an affordable price in a clean environment. Davenport spent time at White Castle to learn about restaurant hygiene and assembly line procedures, which he then applied to his own ideas.
Less than ten years after opening its first restaurant, Krystal had expanded to 33 locations across Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. In the 1950s, Krystal distinguished itself from other fast-food chains by using inexpensive porcelain plates to serve food rather than disposable wrappers or boxes. They also added milkshakes, fries, and chili to their menu and began adding drive-thrus as more customers began driving.
Today, Krystal continues to use 100% USDA beef in their burgers and offers a variety of menu options beyond their famous Krystal burger. The company has faced challenges over the years, including bankruptcy reorganization in 1995 due to lawsuits involving overtime pay. However, their commitment to using high-quality ingredients has remained constant throughout their history.
What Goes Into A Krystal Burger?
Krystal burgers are made with a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. The main component of the burger is a small, square patty made from 100% USDA beef. The beef is ground and formed into the signature square shape that Krystal is known for.
In addition to the beef patty, Krystal burgers also contain dehydrated onions that are reconstituted with beef broth. This adds a rich, savory flavor to the burger and helps to enhance the natural beef flavor of the patty.
To top off the burger, Krystal uses tangy yellow mustard and crisp dill pickle chips. These toppings add a burst of flavor and texture to the burger, creating a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors.
Krystal burgers are served on either a brioche dinner roll or a slider bun, both of which are lightly steamed to make them soft and fluffy. Finally, a slice of American cheese is added to complete the burger and give it a creamy, cheesy finish.
Is Krystal Beef Real Beef?
Krystal burgers are made with 100% beef, without any fillers or preservatives. The beef used is ground fresh every day and formed into quarter-pound patties. The company takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to ensure that their customers are getting the best possible product.
To enhance the natural beef flavor of the burgers, the onions used in Krystal burgers are dehydrated and then reconstituted with beef broth. This adds to the overall taste and quality of the burger patties.
Krystal’s commitment to using real beef is evident in their menu offerings. They offer a variety of burger options, including the Famous Krystal, Double Krystal, Cheese Krystal, and Double Cheese Krystal. All of these burgers are made with real beef and are grilled to perfection.
The Nutritional Value Of Krystal Burgers
If you’re curious about the nutritional value of Krystal burgers, you’ll be pleased to know that the company provides detailed information on their menu items. Each burger on the menu has a complete nutritional breakdown, including calories, carbs, sodium, and Weight Watchers points.
For example, the Original Krystal burger contains 190 calories, 7 grams of protein, 17 grams of carbohydrates, and 340 milligrams of sodium. The Krystal with Cheese adds an additional 50 calories and 2 grams of protein. While these burgers may not be the healthiest option out there, they can certainly fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Krystal also offers a calorie filter on their website, which allows customers to easily find menu items that fit within their dietary needs. This feature is especially helpful for those who are watching their calorie intake or following a specific diet plan.
Alternatives To Krystal Burgers For Health-Conscious Consumers
While Krystal burgers are made with real beef, health-conscious consumers may be looking for alternative options. Fortunately, there are several options available that offer a healthier twist on the traditional beef burger patty.
1. Black bean burgers: Black beans are a great source of protein and fiber, making them an excellent alternative to beef. They can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs to create a delicious and satisfying burger patty.
2. Turkey burgers: Turkey is a lean protein that is lower in fat and calories than beef. Turkey burgers can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor without adding extra calories.
3. Veggie burgers: Veggie burgers are made with a variety of vegetables and grains, such as quinoa and lentils, making them a great source of fiber and nutrients. They can be topped with avocado or hummus for added flavor.
4. Beyond Meat plant-based burger patties: These burgers are made from pea protein and are gluten-free, soy-free, and GMO-free. They offer the texture and mouthfeel of ground beef without the added saturated fat.
5. Lightlife Smart Dogs: These vegetarian hot dogs are made with soy protein and offer seven grams of protein per dog. They are a great option for those who want the taste of a hot dog without the added fat and calories.
6. Dr. Praeger’s Super Greens Veggie Burgers: These patties are made with kale, spinach, collard greens, and other vegetables, making them a great source of nutrients. They are also low in calories and high in protein.
By offering these alternative options on their menu, fast food restaurants like Krystal can cater to the growing number of health-conscious consumers who are looking for healthier options when dining out.