Healthy Black Bean Burgers Recipe

This delicious and easy-to-make black bean burger recipe will quickly become a go-to in your house! The nutrient-packed patties are perfectly charred on the outside while remaining tender in the middle, and they boast a bold, smoky flavor. Best of all, they require minimal effort to prepare everything coming together in one bowl in under 30 minutes, cooking time included. So next time you're looking for a hassle-free meal that everyone will love, give this black bean burger recipe a try!

INGREDIENTS FOR BLACK BEAN BURGER
  1. 2 (15-oz.) cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
  2. 1 (3.5-oz.) package of shiitake mushrooms, roughly chopped 
  3. 1/2 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  4. 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  5. Kosher salt
  6. Freshly ground black pepper
  7. 1/2 c. old-fashioned oats
  8. 1/2 avocado, chopped
  9. 1/4 c. loosely packed cilantro or parsley leaves
  10. 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  11. 2 tsp. smoked paprika
  12. 1 tsp. chili powder
  13. 1 tsp. ground cumin
  14. Vegetable oil, for cooking

INGREDIENTS FOR SERVING

  • Toasted hamburger buns
  • Lettuce
  • Sliced red onion
  • Sliced avocado
  • Vegan or regular mayonnaise


INSTRUCTIONS FOR BLACK BEAN BURGER

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beans in an even layer on a large baking sheet. Place mushrooms and onion on another large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly before spreading in an even layer as well.
  2. Bake the beans until they are dry and their skins begin to split, 7 to 9 minutes total cooking time should do it. For the mushrooms and onions, bake until tender; 18 to 20 minutes is usually perfect.
  3. In a food processor, add beans, mushrooms, and onion. Also add oats, avocado, cilantro, garlic cloves, paprika chili powder, and cumin. Blend until smooth; if needed scrape down the sides of the food processor as you go.
  4. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes in the refrigerator then form into 4 patties before frying burgers on the stovetop until browned all over with vegetable oil sprayed on a pan/griddle set to medium-high heat.
  5. In a large skillet over medium heat, coat the bottom of the pan with enough vegetable oil. Add veggie burgers to the skillet and cook until the outside is crisp and golden, and inside is heated through, flipping once halfway.
  6. Add your favorite toppings to the burgers.


Top suggestions for creating black bean burgers:

  • Beans: Although it might seem like an extra step, roasting the beans significantly improves the burger's texture. It allows moisture to escape, resulting in a firmer, less mushy patty.
  • Vegetables: Mushrooms are a fantastic addition to vegetarian dishes, offering an earthy flavor that resembles meat. Roasting mushrooms enhances their umami taste, while onions contribute extra flavor and texture.
  • Ideal binder: Avocado serves as an excellent binder for veggie burgers, providing healthy fats and ensuring a fully vegan patty. If you're not vegan or don't have avocados, an egg can be used instead.
  • Flavorful herbs and spices: Emphasize the black bean flavor by adding cilantro, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices for a personalized touch.
  • Forming the patties: Since these burgers won't shrink like meat, shape them to match your bun size. This recipe makes 4 big burgers. You can also make 8 smaller burgers if you like. This way, you can make double-decker burgers.
  • Drain and rinse the beans well: Properly draining and rinsing canned black beans helps remove excess starch and sodium, which can contribute to a mushy texture in the burger.
  • Chill the patties before cooking: Refrigerate the formed patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.
  • Use a food processor: For a more even texture and easier mixing, use a food processor to pulse the ingredients together. Be careful not to over-process, as this can cause the mixture to become too mushy.
  • Adjust the seasoning: Don't be afraid to taste the mixture (if it doesn't contain raw egg) and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
  • Cooking method options: In addition to grilling, baking, and frying, you can also cook black bean burgers on a stovetop griddle or panini press. These methods provide even heat distribution and can create a nice crust on the outside of the patty.
  • Add texture with mix-ins: Enhance the texture of your black bean burgers by adding mix-ins like chopped nuts, seeds, or even cooked grains like quinoa or rice. These additions provide extra crunch and contrast to the softness of the beans.
  • Customize your toppings: Get creative with your burger toppings to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Consider options like fresh avocado slices, pickled vegetables, vegan cheese, or a flavorful sauce like chipotle mayo or tzatziki.

These additional tips will help you create delicious, perfectly textured, and flavorful black bean burgers that cater to your preferences and dietary needs.

Dishes best paired with black bean burger
Here are some dishes that pair well with a black bean burger:

  • Sweet potato fries: These slightly sweet and crispy fries complement the earthy flavors of a black bean burger perfectly.
  • Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the burger.
  • Grilled corn on the cob: This summer staple, seasoned with a bit of salt and pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder, pairs well with the smoky flavors of a black bean burger.
  • Avocado and tomato salad: A simple salad of avocado, tomato, red onion, and cilantro, dressed with lime juice and olive oil, adds a burst of freshness to the meal.
  • Roasted vegetable skewers: Colorful skewers of roasted or grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms, offer a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
  • Quinoa or rice salad: A chilled grain salad packed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty black bean burger.
  • Pickled vegetables: Quick-pickled cucumbers, red onions, or jalapeños add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the burger.
  • Baked beans: A side of smoky, sweet baked beans enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.
  • Greek salad: A classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese adds a Mediterranean twist to your black bean burger meal.
  • Guacamole and chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips is a delicious side that can also double as a topping for your black bean burger.

These dishes provide a variety of flavors and textures that will enhance your black bean burger experience and create a satisfying meal.
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