The healthiness of a burger can vary widely based on its ingredients and preparation. While a burger can be a good source of protein and iron, it is often high in saturated fats and calories, contributing to heart disease and obesity if consumed in excess. Additionally, frequent consumption of burgers, especially from burger stalls, has been associated with increased cholesterol levels and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, a burger can be part of a balanced diet when made with lean meat and healthy toppings. It’s important to consider the overall dietary pattern and how a burger fits it. Photo by Rajesh TP
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History of Burger
The burger, a global culinary icon, has a rich history that intertwines with the evolution of modern society. Its origins can be traced back to various forms of ground meat found in the cuisines of different cultures throughout history. The concept of the hamburger as we know it today began to take shape in the United States, where it was first sold as a “hamburger sandwich.” This innovation combined two slices of bread with a ground beef patty, a simple yet revolutionary idea that quickly included typical trimmings such as onions, lettuce, and pickles. The hamburger’s association with fast food began in the 1920s with the White Castle restaurant chain, which was instrumental in popularizing the concept of processed food.
The hamburger’s story is not just about food but also about cultural exchange and globalization. As American soldiers and businessmen traveled the world, so did the hamburger, adapting to various culinary cultures along the way. The hamburger’s adaptability made it a perfect fit for the emerging fast-food industry, which was further propelled by the franchise business model. This model allowed for the widespread distribution of the hamburger, making it a staple in diets around the globe.
The economic impact of the hamburger is also significant, as evidenced by the Big Mac Index, which uses the price of a Big Mac to compare the purchasing power of different countries. This index highlights the hamburger’s role in the global economy, transcending its status as mere sustenance to become a tool for economic analysis.
Despite its global popularity, the hamburger has faced its share of controversies, including debates over its nutritional value. However, it has remained a beloved dish, often considered an embodiment of American cuisine alongside other favorites like fried chicken and apple pie. The hamburger’s journey from a simple meal to an international symbol of fast food reflects the dynamic nature of food history and its ability to shape, and be shaped by society.
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The Ramly burger is a beloved street food staple in many neighborhoods, known for its deliciously unique preparation. At a standard Ramly burger stall, you can expect to find a menu featuring the classic Ramly burgers along with special options that include double patties or the addition of a fried egg, wrapped in a thin layer of egg omelet. The consistency in preparation from one stall to another ensures that customers can always enjoy the same great taste and quality, whether it’s the perfectly grilled patty or the signature sauce that makes the Ramly burger a crowd favorite.
Neighbourhood Burger Stall
After a year or so, we finally have a Ramly burger stall in the neighborhood. It is a welcome sight for those of us who need to be content with cheap burgers as our dinner (other than the infamous “Maggi Mee”). Waiting at the burger stall is something we all can cherish and the burger is far more tasteful than the burgers sold at the fast food restaurants.
Then again, the burger stall in the neighborhood has come a long way too – for it is “manned” by a family man. Immediately, notable differences can be seen between this stall and the burger stalls in the olden days manned by someone who looks like a rocker is almost immediate.
- Stall accessories: The family man’s stall does not have a radio belting out Malay rock songs or has mopeds as the main vehicle. A flashy car is the in-thing now.
- Dress code: The family man stall chef is not in his tight jeans and rocker T-shirts but rather with smart long pants and with“polo” T-shirt
- Assistant: The burger stall assistant is not the chef’s rocker buddy but rather is the chef’s wife and children
- Cleanliness: The surroundings of the family man’s burger stall are spotlessly clean and do not have “cat-size” rats running around.
Lifeline Food
Reflecting on my college days, after spending hours focused on normal work assignments the whole day, I would hurry through the bustling streets to attend night classes. These intense night classes often leave me both mentally and physically exhausted. Amidst this hectic rhythm of life, there was a small yet significant moment of solace: the burger stall located conveniently near Bus Stand Klang.
The aroma of grilled patties wafted through the air, a beacon of comfort after a long day. Purchasing a burger from this humble stall wasn’t just a mere act of eating; it was a ritual that brought immense satisfaction as I would not have eaten anything since lunch (sometimes breakfast).
Sometimes there would be a queue at this burger stall but I would rather wait for the burger to be done and then I walk to the bus station to wait for the bus home. Despite being very hungry, I will hold back from eating until I am on the bus and on the way home.
McDonald’s Burgers
Other than the neighborhood burger stall, when we have the cash to spare, we get the premium prized burgers from McDonald’s, the global fast-food chain, is renowned for its wide array of burgers namely the chicken burger and the fillet-o-fish.
The history of McDonald’s chicken burger is quite fascinating. Introduced in 1980, the McChicken burger initially did not meet sales expectations and was replaced by the now-famous Chicken McNuggets. However, the McChicken made a triumphant return in 1988 and has since become a staple on the menu. Over the years, the McChicken has seen various changes, especially in its size, to maintain a consistent price point as part of the Dollar Menu & More. The original McChicken patty was a mix of white and dark meat, and while the exact composition has evolved, it continues to be a blend of both.
McDonald’s has also introduced several variants of the McChicken to cater to different regional tastes. For instance, the Cajun (Style) McChicken was introduced upon its reintroduction in 1997, later changing back to the classic McChicken around 2001. The Hot ‘n Spicy variant was sold in the south and southwestern parts of the US, reflecting local preferences for more heat in their food.
As for the current options, McDonald’s offers a variety of chicken burgers, including the classic McChicken, the spicy McCrispy, and the deluxe versions of these burgers. The Chicken Big Mac, a poultry twist on the iconic Big Mac, has also been introduced, featuring tempura battered chicken patties instead of beef. These offerings show McDonald’s commitment to innovation and catering to the evolving tastes of its customers.
McChicken’s journey reflects the broader history of McDonald’s menu development, showcasing the brand’s ability to adapt and respond to consumer demand. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved menu item, McChicken’s history is a testament to McDonald’s enduring appeal and its role in the fast-food industry.
Final Say
In Malaysia, a popular street food is the Ramly burger, which is often sold at small local burger stalls in neighborhoods. These stalls are a common sight, especially in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya, where they serve as a go-to spot for a quick, delicious, and affordable meal. The Ramly burger itself is a unique Malaysian twist on the traditional hamburger, featuring a beef or chicken patty that’s typically wrapped in a thin layer of egg, along with a blend of special spices and sauces that give it a distinctive flavor.
These burgers are known for being customizable, allowing customers to add ingredients like cheese, mayonnaise, and various types of sauces according to their taste. The stalls usually operate in the evenings and late into the night, making them a popular choice for dinner or a late-night snack. The experience of eating a Ramly burger from a neighborhood stall is not just about the food, but also about the atmosphere of the bustling streets and the warm interactions with the stall owners, who often have a loyal following in their community. For many Malaysians, these neighborhood burger stalls are a beloved part of the local food culture, offering a taste of home in every bite.