Name: Black Bean Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans (or 3 cups cooked black beans); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (pressed); 1 or more jalapeños (chopped); 4 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chipotle powder (or substitute with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika + ¼ teaspoon chili powder); 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 large egg; ¾ cup feta cheese (crumbled); ½ cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste + black pepper to taste); 4 burger buns

Why Make This Recipe

Black Bean Burgers are not only delicious but also a healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers. They are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from black beans and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option without compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.

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How to Make Black Bean Burger

Ingredients:

2 cans (15 oz each) black beans (or 3 cups cooked black beans)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (pressed)
1 or more jalapeños (chopped)
4 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chipotle powder (or substitute with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika + ¼ teaspoon chili powder)
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 large egg
¾ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste + black pepper to taste)
4 burger buns

Directions:

Dry the beans: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Spread the black beans on a baking tray and bake for 20 minutes to reduce moisture.
Make the flavor base: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 3 minutes. Then, add the pressed garlic, chopped jalapeños, tomato paste, cumin, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Make the patties: In a food processor, combine half of the cooked black beans with the flavor base. Add balsamic vinegar, the egg, and breadcrumbs. Pulse briefly until everything is combined but still chunky. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in the remaining black beans and crumbled feta cheese. Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 patties.
Cook the patties: You can prepare the patties using different methods:
- Pan-frying: Cook in an oiled skillet over medium-low heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side.
- Air-frying: Brush with oil and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to 400°F (200°C), brush the patties with oil, and grill for 5 to 8 minutes per side.
- Oven-baking: Bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
Assemble the Burger: Serve the patties in toasted buttered burger buns with toppings like chipotle sauce or sriracha mixed with mayo, lettuce, guacamole, and pickled onions. These burgers pair well with roasted sweet potatoes, roasted veggies, or corn on the cob. For a fresh side, consider coleslaw, healthy broccoli salad, pineapple cucumber salad, or dill potato salad.

How to Serve Black Bean Burger

Serve your Black Bean Burgers hot and fresh, nestled in toasted burger buns. You can add your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal. These burgers are especially great for family gatherings, summer cookouts, or even a simple weeknight dinner.

How to Store Black Bean Burger

You can store leftover Black Bean Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, cook them straight from frozen.

Tips to Make Black Bean Burger

If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help it hold together.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños according to your preference.
Use a variety of toppings to enhance the flavor experience.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

Variation

You can swap out feta cheese for other types of cheese or even omit it for a dairy-free version. Vegetables like bell peppers or corn can also be added to the mixture for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.

2. Are black bean burgers healthy?
Absolutely! Black bean burgers are high in protein and fiber and contain essential nutrients, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional beef burgers.

3. Can I bake these burgers instead of frying or grilling?
Yes! You can bake the patties in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier cooking method.