Black Bean Burger

Black bean burgers are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional beef burgers. Packed with protein and fiber, they make for a satisfying meal that even meat lovers will enjoy. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings and condiments.

Tasting Notes

Expect a rich, hearty flavor with a satisfyingly meaty texture. The black beans provide a creamy base, while the spices add a hint of smokiness and depth. These burgers are perfect for grilling or pan-searing, and they pair wonderfully with all your favorite burger fixings.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Burger buns
• Toppings and condiments of your choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado, cheese, ketchup, mustard, etc.)

Kitchen Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Skillet or grill
• Spatula

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed beans. Mix until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the black bean patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through. Alternatively, grill the patties over medium heat for the same amount of time.
5. Toast the burger buns if desired.
6. Assemble your burgers by placing a black bean patty on each bun and adding your favorite toppings and condiments.

Pro Tips

• For extra flavor, roast the garlic and onion before adding them to the burger mixture.
• If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Don’t skip the step of rinsing the black beans. It helps remove excess sodium and prevents the burgers from becoming too mushy.

Variations

• Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika, to customize the flavor profile.
• Substitute breadcrumbs with rolled oats or cooked quinoa for a gluten-free option.
• Incorporate grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.

FAQs