This black bean burger is a tasty and healthy option for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal. Made with simple ingredients like black beans, oats, and spices, it packs a punch of flavor!
I love how easy it is to whip these up! Just mix, form, and cook. They’re perfect for dinner or a barbecue, and trust me, your friends will ask for seconds! 🖤🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: These are the star of the show! Canned beans are super convenient, but you can also cook dried black beans if you have time. If you’re avoiding beans, chickpeas can be a great alternative!
Rolled Oats: Oats help bind the burger and add a nice texture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free oats. For a different flavor, breadcrumbs or quinoa can also work well.
Walnuts or Pecans: These nuts add a bit of crunch and nuttiness. You can swap them for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds color and sweetness. Feel free to use any bell pepper or even finely chopped carrots. Zucchini or corn can also give a delicious twist!
Egg: A whole egg helps bind the mixture together, but for a vegan option, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) works perfectly!
How Do I Keep My Black Bean Burger From Falling Apart?
The key to keeping your black bean burger solid lies in proper mixture and cooking techniques. First, mash the black beans well but leave some chunks for texture. Combine all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even binding.
- After mixing, check the consistency. If it’s too wet and won’t hold, add a bit more oats.
- Form the patties evenly to avoid any weak spots.
- Cook the patties slowly over medium heat, allowing them to brown nicely. This helps them hold together better.
Using a non-stick skillet or lightly greasing your pan can also prevent sticking and breaking while flipping. Enjoy your burgers without the worry!
Easy Healthy Black Bean Burger
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper or onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 large egg (or flax egg to keep vegan)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for cooking
- Whole wheat burger buns
- Leafy lettuce leaves
- 2 slices of cheese (optional, e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
- Cooked or caramelized onions (optional)
- Guacamole or mashed avocado (optional)
- Tomato ketchup or your favorite sauce
Time Needed:
This black bean burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick, healthy, and delightful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Black Beans:
In a medium-sized bowl, take your drained and rinsed black beans and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Aim for a mostly smooth consistency, but leave some chunks for a tasty bite. This helps keep the burger textured!
2. Mix in the Ingredients:
Once your beans are mashed, add in the rolled oats, chopped walnuts (or pecans), diced red bell pepper (or onion), minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. You want a slightly sticky mixture that holds together.
3. Add the Binding Agent:
Crack the large egg into the mixture (or add the flax egg if you’re keeping it vegan) and mix well. The mixture should easily form patties. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in more oats; if it’s too dry, add a bit of water or another egg white to help bind it.
4. Shape the Patties:
With your mix ready, divide it into four equal parts and shape them into patties approximately 3/4 inch thick. Don’t worry about perfection; they’ll taste great either way!
5. Cook the Patties:
In a large non-stick skillet, heat your chosen oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and heated through. Give them a little space in the pan to cook evenly!
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re adding cheese, place a slice on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover the skillet with a lid to help it melt, making the burgers even more delicious.
7. Toast the Buns:
If you like, toast the burger buns lightly. This adds a lovely crunch to your burger assembly!
8. Assemble Your Burger:
Start assembling by placing a crisp lettuce leaf on the bottom bun. Add one beautifully cooked black bean patty with melted cheese, followed by any extras like caramelized onions, a scoop of guacamole, and your favorite sauce. Top it off with the upper half of the bun.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your hearty, healthy black bean burger is ready to eat! Serve it up right away, and maybe pair it with sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad. Enjoy every bite!
This burger is not just about taste; it’s loaded with fiber and protein, thanks to the beans and nuts, making it a nutritious choice for any meal of the day!
Can I Make These Black Bean Burgers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the black bean mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Form the patties right before cooking for the best texture. Alternatively, you can cook the patties and refrigerate them. Just reheat on a stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Walnuts or Pecans?
No worries if you have nut allergies or preferences! You can substitute nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Alternatively, you can simply omit them for a lighter burger.
How Do I Store Leftover Black Bean Burgers?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze These Burgers?
Yes, these black bean burgers freeze wonderfully! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
