Nov. 24--Mushrooms! They're Mother Nature's toe jam. But they're also prized and delicious, and their meaty savoriness is a fine dance partner with a burger. This month, we sample three sandwiches -- one beef, one chicken, one vegetarian -- where mushroom plays a starring role.
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Wendy's
Bacon Portobello Melt on Brioche
Ad copy: There is only one Bacon Portobello Melt. It's a quarter-pound of our hot and juicy beef, crisp bacon and rich portabellas in a melty cheddar sauce on our soft, warm brioche bun. Hurry, a sandwich this craveable is only available for a limited time.
Nutritional: 850 calories, 51 g fat, 1,680 mg sodium (double burger)
Our take: Artificial tasting mushroom coins, liquidy cheese, proprietary square patty flavorless. Most successful component (relatively speaking) was the brioche bun -- better than most fast food offerings. Sturdy crust with cushion-soft interior.
McGrade: C+
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Smashburger
Grilled Chicken Truffle Mushroom Swiss
Ad copy: Truffle mayo, sauteed crimini mushrooms and aged Swiss on an egg bun.
Nutritional: 580 calories, 33 g fat, 1,520 mg sodium
Our take: To my delight, this was an excellent chicken sandwich. The key was thin griddled slices of chicken breast that retained its moistness. A potent truffled mayo, with chopped mushrooms for more savory oomph. Bun had an appealingly light and soft chew.
McGrade: A
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Shake Shack
'Shroom Burger
Ad copy: Crispy-fried portobello mushroom filled with melted muenster and cheddar cheeses, topped with lettuce, tomato and ShackSauce.
Nutritional: 490 calories, 30 g fat, 925 mg sodium (single burger)
Our take: Crispy breaded fried puck, like a croquette. In the center was a sliver of portobello mushroom, and an oozy shot of molten cheese that explodes onto your face if you bite too quick. Flavors aren't as cohesive as I'd thought. Bun/lettuce/tomato combination doesn't add much.
McGrade: C
kpang@tribpub.com
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