Pin this Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers with a crispy exterior and tender center are perfect for a budget-friendly, protein-rich vegetarian or vegan meal. These burgers are easy to make and satisfyingly delicious, making them a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
I first tried making black bean burgers when looking for a hearty alternative to traditional beef patties. They quickly became a staple in our kitchen, especially for meatless Mondays or when entertaining vegan friends.
Ingredients
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Rolled oats: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Red onion: 1/2 small, finely chopped
- Carrot: 1 small, grated
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground flaxseed (or chia seed) + water: 2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water (egg replacer)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Olive oil (or other vegetable oil): 2 tbsp, to cook
- Burger buns: 4 whole wheat or gluten-free buns (optional)
- Lettuce leaves: as needed (optional)
- Tomato slices: as needed (optional)
- Avocado slices: as needed (optional)
- Vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: as needed (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Flaxseed:
- In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed with water and set aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Mash the Beans:
- In a large bowl, mash black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
- Add Vegetables and Flavorings:
- Add oats, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beans. Mix well.
- Combine Binders:
- Stir in the flaxseed mixture to combine thoroughly.
- Rest the Mixture:
- Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture.
- Shape Patties:
- Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Cook Patties:
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Pin this These burgers are a family favorite, especially for casual dinners outside on the patio. Everyone enjoys customizing their toppings and piling their burgers high.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons and cups.
Allergen Information
Contains soy from soy sauce or tamari, and gluten if using regular oats or buns. Always check all labels for possible cross-contamination if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each burger (without bun or toppings) contains approximately 210 calories, 6 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein.
Pin this Enjoy these flavorful burgers with sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I bind the patties without eggs?
Mix ground flaxseed with water and let it thicken; this creates a vegan binder that holds the patties together.
- → Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free oats and buns, and replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free variation.
- → What spices enhance the flavor of the patties?
Smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion provide a rich, smoky, and mildly spicy taste.
- → How should I cook the patties for best texture?
Pan-fry over medium heat with olive oil until each side is crisp and golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side.
- → Can these patties be grilled?
Yes, chilling them for 30 minutes before grilling helps maintain firmness and prevents crumbling.