Pin it Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers with a crispy exterior and tender center are perfect for a budget-friendly, protein-rich vegetarian or vegan meal. Quick to prepare, these burgers make a satisfying main dish for lunch or dinner.
I first made these black bean burgers for a weekend cookout when a few friends asked for something meat-free yet filling. They were a hit for both vegetarians and meat eaters alike!
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: 2 tbsp (or chia seed) + 6 tbsp water
- 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: 2 tbsp (or other vegetable oil)
- Burger buns: 4 whole wheat or gluten-free (optional)
- Lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: as desired for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the flaxseed mixture:
- 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 seasoning:
- Add oats, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Combine the mixture:
- Stir in the thickened flaxseed mixture to combine thoroughly.
- Rest the mixture:
- Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture.
- Shape patties:
- Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Cook patties:
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5 to 6 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Place burgers on buns and add lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan mayonnaise or ketchup as desired.
Pin it My kids love assembling their own burgers with favorite toppings, and these black bean patties have become a family staple for meatless Mondays!
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains soy if using soy sauce or tamari. Contains gluten if using regular oats or buns—use gluten-free versions as needed.
Nutritional Information
Per burger (without bun or toppings): Calories: 210, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 31 g, Protein: 9 g
Pin it Enjoy these hearty black bean burgers with your favorite sides—they're great for meal prep and always a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe FAQs
- → What binds the black bean mixture together?
Ground flaxseed mixed with water acts as an egg replacer, providing a sticky binder that holds the patties firmly during cooking.
- → Can these patties be made gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free oats and buns along with tamari in place of soy sauce makes the dish gluten-free.
- → How can I add more spice to these burgers?
Incorporate chopped jalapeños or chipotle powder for an extra kick of heat without overpowering the original flavors.
- → What’s the best cooking method for a crispy exterior?
Pan-frying in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown creates a delicious crispy crust while keeping the interior tender.
- → Are there alternatives to black beans in this dish?
While black beans are central, other mashed beans like kidney or pinto can be substituted, but flavor and texture will vary.
- → How should these burgers be served?
Serve on whole wheat or gluten-free buns with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, and vegan mayo or ketchup for a balanced meal.