Shake Shack's Meatless Offerings: A Dive into the Veggie Shack and 'Shroom Burger
Shake Shack, while famous for its beef burgers, has developed a selection of meatless options to cater to vegetarian and vegan diners. The primary meatless choices are two distinct burgers: the newer Veggie Shack and the classic 'Shroom Burger. These offerings are designed to provide satisfying and flavorful alternatives.
The All-New Veggie Shack
Launched in 2023, the Veggie Shack patty is made from a blend of real vegetables and grains, providing a different approach than meat-mimicking plant-based burgers. It features a combination of ingredients such as portobello and shiitake mushrooms, sweet potato, carrots, and various other vegetables and grains. The standard build includes American cheese, crispy onions, pickles, and ShackSauce on a potato roll.
Veggie Shack Patty Ingredients:
- Mushrooms (Portobello, shiitake)
- Sweet potato and carrots
- Celery, leek, roasted red onion, roasted garlic, cabbage, beet
- Chives
- Whole grains (farro, quinoa)
- Sunflower seeds and miso
The Veggie Shack can be customized for a vegan diet by removing the cheese, crispy onions, and ShackSauce. A lettuce wrap or gluten-free bun should be requested instead of the potato roll.
The Classic 'Shroom Burger
The 'Shroom Burger is a longtime meatless option at Shake Shack. It consists of a portobello mushroom cap that is stuffed with melted muenster and cheddar cheese, then breaded and deep-fried. It is served on a potato bun with lettuce, tomato, and ShackSauce. This option is suitable for vegetarians but is not vegan due to the cheese filling and preparation.
Comparison: Veggie Shack vs. 'Shroom Burger
Here’s a comparison of Shake Shack’s two main meatless burgers:
| Feature | Veggie Shack | 'Shroom Burger |
|---|---|---|
| Patty Type | Vegetable and grain blend | Fried cheese-stuffed portobello mushroom |
| Vegan Potential | Can be made vegan with modifications | Not vegan |
| Key Flavors | Vegetable-forward, earthy | Cheesy, umami, crispy |
| Texture | Firmer, dense | Soft interior, crispy coating |
Beyond the Burger: Other Meatless Options
Shake Shack also offers other items suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets:
- Crinkle-Cut Fries: These are vegan when ordered plain as they are cooked in vegetable oil. Cheese fries are not vegan.
- Grilled Cheese: A simple vegetarian option with American cheese on a potato bun.
- Non-Dairy Chocolate Custard and Shake: Made with NotMilk™, these are plant-based dessert options.
- Drinks: Fountain sodas, iced teas, and lemonades are typically vegan.
How to Order Your Meatless Shake Shack
Ordering meatless options is easy. Vegetarians have both the Veggie Shack and 'Shroom Burger, along with fries and dairy desserts. Vegans can customize the Veggie Shack by omitting dairy/egg components and choosing an alternative bun. Non-dairy custards and shakes are also available. Clearly communicating dietary needs when ordering is recommended.
Conclusion: The Meatless Shake Shack is More Than Just a Burger
Shake Shack offers compelling meatless choices with the distinct Veggie Shack and 'Shroom Burger. These options, combined with other vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu items like fries and non-dairy desserts, make Shake Shack a viable option for those seeking plant-based or meat-free meals. They have successfully integrated diverse offerings alongside their traditional menu.
For the most current information, consult Shake Shack's official website.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Meatless Shake Shack
What is Shake Shack's main vegetarian burger?
Shake Shack offers two primary vegetarian burgers: the Veggie Shack, a vegetable and grain patty, and the 'Shroom Burger, a deep-fried portobello mushroom filled with cheese.
Is the 'Shroom Burger vegan?
No, the 'Shroom Burger is not vegan because it is stuffed with cheese and contains dairy and egg in its preparation. It is only suitable for vegetarians.
Can the Veggie Shack be made vegan?
Yes, the Veggie Shack can be made vegan by omitting the American cheese, crispy onions, and ShackSauce, and selecting a lettuce wrap or gluten-free bun.
Are Shake Shack's fries vegetarian and vegan-friendly?
Yes, the plain crinkle-cut fries are both vegetarian and vegan as they are cooked in vegetable oil. The cheese fries are not vegan.
Does Shake Shack offer vegan desserts or shakes?
Yes, Shake Shack has non-dairy chocolate frozen custard and a hand-spun non-dairy chocolate shake, both made with NotMilk™, a plant-based alternative.
What is in the Veggie Shack patty?
The Veggie Shack patty contains a blend of over 11 vegetables and grains, including portobello and shiitake mushrooms, sweet potato, carrot, quinoa, farro, sunflower seeds, and miso.
Does Shake Shack have an Impossible Burger or Beyond Burger?
Shake Shack uses its own unique recipes for its meatless options, such as the Veggie Shack's vegetable and grain patty, rather than using Impossible or Beyond Meat products.
Is the grilled cheese sandwich at Shake Shack vegan?
No, the grilled cheese contains American cheese, so it is not vegan. It is a vegetarian option.
