Sometimes the best way to compete is just to play the game well. The theme for Burger Wellington this year is ‘Play With Your Food’ and so far, it’s been a lot of fun little things but I’ve been really hungry for something that commits. Something that really makes me feel like I’m playing with my food. Something that evokes genuine enjoyment in the non-eating part of the burger.
Enter A Frankenstein Adventure by Zephyr Café.
Presented with a series of test tubes with assorted liquids nestled within is a formula for a sambal chilli aioli. Following the instructions on the accompanying cardboard results in a delicious and spicy concoction designed to be poured all over the burger. It’s a really novel concept and it’s impossible to screw up. The oils emulsify with ease into the egg yolk, a fascinating feat given how often I’ve had homemade mayo split in front of my very eyes.
This all happens before the burger even shows up. We’re given a solid ten minutes to play around with the beaker before the plate of burger ingredients shows up, ready to be assembled however we like, like Frankenstein’s monster. It’s a cheeky trick, given that there’s only so many ways to stack a burger, but if you want to be completely unconventional, e.g. reverse the burger so the chicken in on the outside, you’re more than welcome to. I decided to play it safe, and assembled my sandwich the way God intended:
The chicken is deliciously marinated in coconutty curry spices and fried in a crispy cornflour batter. All the little grooves of crunch provide plenty of sneaky receptacles to hold the sambal aioli you’ve just made. The snowflower pea crisps on the side are perfectly seasoned and sneaking a few of them into the burger adds a really great crunch, and the frightfully green bun is a pandan and coconut sesame bun that has just a hint of sweetness.
It’s a delicious burger that makes the most of this year’s theme. It’s messy, enjoyable, and did not have to be as delicious as it is. It’s perfect for fans of Malaysian flavours, and great for people wanting something a little more from the celebrations of play this festival.
