Looking at a burger through the filter of the five elements of taste (Sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami) you can see why it’s has won the world over.
A Quick Breakdown:
Tomato — Acid, Umami
Beef Patty — Umami, Fat, Salt
Mayonnaise — Fat
Ketchup — Sweet, Umami
Relish-(acid, sweet)
Lettuce — Crunch (Crispness)
Sesame Seed Bun — Bitter (sesame seeds have a slightly bitter, pleasant taste), Chewy
Factor in varied textured (chewy bun, crisp lettuce, creamy mayo) and it’s a masterclass.
Side note: Japanese have 400 words that describe the texture of food, but in America there are only 80 or so. Mouthfeel and texture is a big deal in making delicious food.
The outside variable is spice level (which can be added via hot sauce, chili, spicy condiments etc.)
I hope this helps you understand WHY a burger tastes so good.
Next time you make up your own dish, think of all the elements that make a burger great and try to work some in. You don’t have to hit all of them, even 3/5 will transform a dish for the better.
