Vegan Black Bean Burgers Recipe

Black beans: These provide the base for the burgers, offering a rich source of protein and fiber.

Breadcrumbs: These help bind the mixture together and give the patties a nice texture.

Onion: Adds a bit of sweetness and depth of flavor to the burgers.

Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Chili powder: Adds a bit of heat and a smoky flavor to the patties.

Cumin: Offers a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with the black beans.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the burgers.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the flavor profile.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the patties, giving them a crispy exterior.

When mashing the black beans, aim for a texture that is mostly smooth but still has some chunks. This will give your burgers a better texture and help them hold together. If the mixture seems too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency.

• black beans - Substitute with kidney beans: Kidney beans have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable replacement in vegan burgers.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can help bind the ingredients together while keeping the recipe gluten-free.

• finely chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can add a different depth to the burger.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can offer a milder heat and a slightly smoky flavor, which can be a nice variation.

• cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander has a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other spices in the burger.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat profile and can add a subtle spiciness without altering the color of the burger.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking the burgers.

• Allow the black bean burgers to cool completely after cooking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the patties soggy.
• Place the cooled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. This step is crucial to prevent them from sticking together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the patties freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. This initial freezing step helps maintain their shape.
• Once the black bean burgers are frozen solid, remove them from the baking sheet and wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This provides an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped patties in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• Store the black bean burgers in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, you can cook them directly from frozen or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen patties on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a frying pan over medium heat with a bit of olive oil, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the black bean burgers in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the black bean burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Microwave Method: Place the black bean burgers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heated evenly.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the black bean burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and have a crispy exterior.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly brush the black bean burgers with olive oil. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and grill marks appear.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and mash the black beans with other ingredients.

• Fork: Used to mash the black beans until they are mostly smooth.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the breadcrumbs and finely chopped onion.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

• Knife: For finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: A surface to chop the onion and garlic safely.

• Frying pan: Used to cook the patties over medium heat.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties in the frying pan.

• Can opener: Needed to open the can of black beans.

• Paper towels: Useful for draining and rinsing the black beans.

Use a food processor: Quickly mash the black beans and mix ingredients by pulsing in a food processor.

Pre-chop ingredients: Finely chop the onion and garlic in advance and store them in the fridge.

Make extra patties: Double the recipe and freeze extra black bean patties for a quick meal later.

Use pre-made breadcrumbs: Save time by using store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making your own.

Heat the pan first: Preheat the frying pan while forming the patties to save cooking time.