Black Bean Burgers Recipe
These black bean burgers are a great option for those looking to add more plant-based protein to their diets. Made from mashed black beans, combined with various seasonings and binders like bread crumbs or flaxseed, these patties offer a savory and meaty taste without the actual meat. The texture is surprisingly hearty, providing a satisfying bite that even carnivores can appreciate. They are not only versatile, but also incredibly easy to prepare at home, making them perfect for casual weeknight meals or backyard barbecues. Plus, they can be customized with different toppings and condiments to suit individual preferences – whether it's melted cheese, avocado slices, or a zesty chipotle mayo. Health-wise, black bean burgers are high in fiber and low in fat compared to traditional beef counterparts – an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle without sacrificing flavor!
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 cast iron pan.
- 1 food processor or potato masher.
Ingredients
- 2 14-ounce cans black beans, drained, and patted dry.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 ½ tsp ground cumin.
- 1 tsp chili powder.
- ½ cup bell pepper, chopped.
- 1 cup yellow onion, chopped.
- 2 large eggs.
- ½ tsp garlic powder.
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce.
- ¼ tsp paprika.
- ½ cup bread crumbs.
- 1 tsp salt.
Instructions
Soaking Black Beans for Optimal Texture
- Soak your black beans. Soaking helps soften the beans, reduce cooking time, and improve digestibility. Simply place the beans in a bowl, cover them with water, and let them soak overnight.
Cooking Methods for Black Beans
- Stovetop Cooking: Add the soaked beans to a pot, cover them with water, and simmer for about 1-2 hours until tender.
- Pressure Cooking: Significantly reduces cooking time. If you're in a hurry, canned black beans can also be used in a pinch.
- Or use canned beans, drained and patted dry.
Baking the Beans
- Spread prepared beans onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 325 degrees.
Cooking the Fresh Vegetables
- Saute the minced garlic, onion, and pepper. Blot out the moisture with a clean cloth.
Mixing and Mashing the Black Bean Mixture
- When combining the black beans with the other ingredients, be mindful of the texture you want to achieve. Mash about half of the beans, leaving the other half whole or roughly chopped. This way, you'll have a nice balance of creaminess and texture in your patties. It's like having the best of both worlds on your bun!
Shaping and Cooking the Black Bean Patties
- To achieve those gorgeous, perfectly shaped patties, make sure your hands are slightly damp. This helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your palms and ensures a smooth shaping process.
- Once you've formed your patties, cook them on a well-preheated grill, stovetop, or oven until they're beautifully browned on the outside and heated through. Remember, patience is key here - resist the urge to flip and poke them too often!