Elvis Burger
Elvis Presley was a global singer and actor, an entertainment icon adored by people of his era. With his handsome face, unique singing and dancing style, and his ability to entertain and bring joy to fans at every show, he earned the title King of Rock and Roll. He is also recognized as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century.
The King's Life and Culinary Legacy
However, in 1977, he passed away suddenly at the age of just 42. In his later years, he had let himself go, consuming unhealthy foods that severely impacted his health, causing his weight to soar to 159 kilograms before his death.
This story deeply saddened his fans. Yet, even after more than 46 years since his passing, Presley's story remains fascinating, especially his food habits. Many wonder what he ate to gain so much weight.
In 1987, Presley's former cook revealed the foods he particularly loved. The cook stated that Presley adored PB&J sandwiches and Fool's Gold Loaf. On one occasion, late at night, he suddenly craved Fool's Gold Loaf. He took his private jet from Graceland to his favorite restaurant in Denver and returned home the same night, just to buy a Fool's Gold Loaf made from a sourdough loaf, a pound of bacon, a jar of peanut butter, and a jar of jelly. This sandwich was said to contain up to 8,000 calories.
However, the foods Presley enjoyed were not unusual for most people; he simply consumed them in excessive amounts and frequently, without incorporating healthy options. Upon hearing about Presley's eating habits, many would agree that he should have lost weight and avoided such foods. Presley did attempt to do so multiple times but always failed. He often said, Food is the only thing that gives me pleasure.
Hearing this, his fans felt saddened, realizing that Presley was likely as passionate about food as he was about music. Instead of avoiding PB&J and Fool's Gold Loaf sandwiches, they flocked to buy and consume more of both types of sandwiches as a tribute to Elvis Presley.
The Birth of the "Elvis Burger" from the King's Inspiration
Elvis Presley's influence became an inspiration for classic American food fusion. Many chefs adapted the traditional PB&J and Fool's Gold Loaf sandwiches into a hamburger with the flavors Presley loved, naming it the Elvis Burger.
By the mid-1990s, small eateries in Memphis, Tennessee, Presley's hometown, began featuring the Elvis Burger on their menus. This burger is made with a burger bun spread with peanut butter, a ground beef patty, pan-fried caramelized bananas, and crispy bacon. It's a perfect blend of sweet, rich, and savory flavors, so delicious that anyone who tried it would come back for more.
The popularity of the Elvis Burger spread rapidly. Presley's fans and food enthusiasts flocked to Memphis, causing the demand for the Elvis Burger to multiply exponentially. Today, the fame of the Elvis Burger is not limited to Memphis but has garnered national and international attention.
Over the years, chefs and food enthusiasts have become more interested in this burger, adding creative twists to the recipe. Some experiment with different types of bread or cheese, while others add extra toppings like jalapeños or honey. However, even with slight variations, the core ingredients of peanut butter, banana, and bacon always remain the foundation of the Elvis Burger.
Today, Elvis Presley's legacy extends far beyond his music and film career. Fans and food lovers can experience his favorite flavors through the Elvis Burger, which serves as a delicious reminder of the beloved icon.