Vegan Black Bean Burgers Recipe

Black beans: Provides the base for the burger, offering a rich source of protein and fiber.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture together, giving the patties their structure.

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

Garlic: Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic and pungent qualities.

Chili powder: Brings a hint of heat and smokiness to the patties.

Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the black beans.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the recipe.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and complexity.

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

When mashing the black beans, aim for a texture that is mostly smooth but still has some chunks. This will help the burgers hold together better while also providing a satisfying bite. Additionally, if you find the mixture too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency.

• black beans - Substitute with kidney beans: Kidney beans have a similar texture and can provide a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with oats: Oats can help bind the mixture together and add a bit of extra fiber.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can add a touch of sweetness.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile and is convenient if you don't have fresh garlic.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can add a smoky flavor and a bit of color without the heat.

• cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander has a citrusy flavor that can complement the other spices well.

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

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat profile but can still provide the necessary spice.

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

• Allow the black bean burgers to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation and sogginess when storing.
• Place the cooled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. This step helps to freeze them individually.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the burgers freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid.
• Once frozen, remove the patties from the baking sheet and wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh.
• Place the wrapped burgers in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date for easy tracking.
• Store the black bean burgers in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• For reheating, you can cook the thawed patties in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

• 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 heated through and slightly crispy.

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the black bean burgers in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until warmed through and slightly browned.

• For a quick microwave option, 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 even heating.

• Use an air fryer set 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 heated through and crispy on the outside.

• If you have a grill, preheat it to medium heat. Place the black bean burgers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, 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 mostly smooth.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the breadcrumbs and olive oil.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

• Knife: Used to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the patties over medium heat.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties in the skillet to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and garlic ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use a food processor: Quickly mash the black beans and mix all ingredients using a food processor instead of a fork.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating the olive oil in the skillet while forming the patties to save time.

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