How to Make Delicious Black Bean Burgers: An Easy Recipe Guide

Black Bean Burger

Yields: 6 burgers Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:

• For the Burgers:

  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained thoroughly (This is crucial for preventing mushy burgers)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (about ½ cup)

  • ½ cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)

  • ½ cup rolled oats (not instant)

  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (or parsley)

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for cooking)
    

• Optional Binders (if needed):

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten (for firmer burgers)

  • 1-2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for drier burgers)
    

• Toppings (Suggestions):

  • Burger buns (whole wheat recommended)

  • Lettuce

  • Tomato slices

  • Red onion slices

  • Avocado slices

  • Salsa

  • Guacamole

  • Sprouts

  • Vegan mayonnaise or your favorite burger sauce
    

Equipment:

• Large bowl

• Food processor (or potato masher and chopping board)

• Skillet or grill pan

• Spatula
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Black Beans: Rinse the black beans thoroughly in a colander until the water runs clear. Drain them very well. You can spread them on a clean kitchen towel and pat them dry for even better results.
   

2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper.
   

3. Process or Mash: Using a food processor, pulse the bean mixture a few times until it's coarsely chopped but not completely pureed. You still want some texture. Alternatively, if you don't have a food processor, you can mash the beans with a potato masher, leaving some whole for texture, and then combine with the other ingredients.
   

4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa (or brown rice), rolled oats, chopped cilantro (or parsley), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bean mixture. Stir well to combine.
   

5. Check Consistency & Add Binders (If Needed): The mixture should be moist but not overly wet. If it seems too wet and you're concerned about the burgers holding their shape, you can add a lightly beaten egg or 1-2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs. Start with a small amount and add more only if necessary.
   

6. Form the Burgers: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty about ½ inch thick. Handle them gently to avoid crumbling.
   

7. Cook the Burgers: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or on a grill pan over medium heat. Carefully place the black bean burgers in the hot oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Be gentle when flipping them.
   

8. Assemble the Burgers: While the burgers are cooking, prepare your desired toppings. Once the burgers are cooked, place them on burger buns and add your favorite toppings.
   

Tips & Variations:

• Spicy Black Bean Burgers: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bean mixture.

• Smoky Black Bean Burgers: Increase the smoked paprika to 1 teaspoon.

• Mushroom Black Bean Burgers: Sauté ½ cup of chopped mushrooms and add them to the bean mixture.

• Freezing: Cooked black bean burgers can be frozen. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a skillet or oven.
  

Baking: For a lower-fat option, you can bake the burgers. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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