Black bean burgers offer a delicious and healthy alternative packed with protein and flavor. This recipe unlocks the secrets to creating juicy, satisfying black bean burgers that rival their classic counterparts.
Burgers sizzle on the grill, a universal symbol of summertime cookouts. But for many, a traditional beef burger might not be the healthiest or most exciting option. Enter the black bean burger: a delicious and versatile answer to your grilling woes. Often relegated to the realm of dryness and crumbliness, black bean burgers have the potential to be just as juicy and satisfying as their meaty counterparts. This recipe goes beyond the expected, revealing the secrets to crafting restaurant-worthy black bean burgers that burst with flavor and hold their shape perfectly.
The secret to getting these burgers just right is to dry out the black beans before adding them to the mix. Simply spread the beans on a baking sheet and bake them for 15 minutes at 325°F (163°C). This step removes excess moisture, ensuring your burgers hold their shape perfectly and have a fantastic texture. Once you've dried your beans, whip up the rest of the bean mixture with aromatics like onions and garlic, breadcrumbs for binding, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Black Bean Burgers Recipe
SERVINGS: 6 SERVINGS | TIME: 45 MINUTES | SOURCE: BAKED & SMOKED
Ingredients
2 cans black beans, drained, rinsed and patted dry
1 medium onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup feta cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Spread black beans on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. While beans are baking, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeño for 5 minutes, until soft.
Step 2
In a food processor pulse cooked vegetables, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Then add in cooked beans, making sure to leave large bean pieces in tact.
Step 3
Preheat oven to 375°F or grill. Form the mixture into 6-7 patties using a 1/2 cup measuring scoop, or to desired thickness.
Step 4
Cook burgers in oven for 10 minutes per side (5 minutes per side if grilling), or until golden brown and hot. Serve on hamburger buns or over greens with your favorite toppings like my homemade sriracha sauce!
