Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner that's also packed with flavor? Look no further! This black bean burger recipe is a fantastic choice for homemade cooking, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas. Forget bland, dry veggie burgers; these are bursting with flavor and texture, guaranteed to impress even the most dedicated carnivore. They're also a fantastic option for healthy meals, providing a hearty and nutritious alternative to traditional beef burgers. Get ready to experience the best black bean burger recipe you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten (or flax egg for vegan option: 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for cooking
- Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, etc.)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the bean mixture: In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork until mostly smooth, leaving some texture. Add the cooked rice, onion, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), breadcrumbs, egg (or flax egg), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Form the patties: Shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, about 1/2-inch thick.
Bake or pan-fry: For baking, place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and slightly browned. For pan-frying, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
Serve: Serve the black bean burgers on buns with your favorite toppings.
Tips for the Best Black Bean Burgers:
- Don't over-mash the beans: Leaving some texture to the beans adds a nice bite to the burgers.
- Add some moisture: If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water or vegetable broth.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to find your favorites. Avocado, salsa, or a spicy mayo are all delicious options.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the burger mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Black Bean Burgers: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño to the mixture for extra heat.
- Cheesy Black Bean Burgers: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the burger mixture.
- Southwest Black Bean Burgers: Add a diced bell pepper and a tablespoon of corn to the mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This easy black bean burger recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your food recipes collection. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking simple, quick dinner ideas and those wanting to incorporate more healthy meals into their diet. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!