Pin Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers with a crispy exterior and tender center are perfect for a budget-friendly, protein-rich vegetarian or vegan meal.
I first made these black bean burgers for a summer cookout with friends and everyone raved about the texture and flavor—even the dedicated meat-eaters reached for seconds.
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 + 6 tbsp, mixed and thickened (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 vegetable oil): 2 tbsp
- Burger buns (whole wheat or gluten-free): 4, optional
- Lettuce leaves: optional
- Tomato slices: optional
- Avocado slices: optional
- Vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: optional
Instructions
- Prepare Flaxseed Mixture:
- Mix ground flaxseed with water in a small bowl. Set aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Mash Beans:
- Mash black beans in a large bowl, leaving some texture.
- Add Vegetables & Seasonings:
- Mix in oats, red onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Binders:
- Add the flaxseed mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Rest Mixture:
- Let stand for 5 minutes to absorb moisture.
- Shape Patties:
- Form mixture into 4 equal burger patties.
- Cook Patties:
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook burgers for 5 minutes on each side until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Place cooked patties on buns and add desired toppings.
Pin These black bean burgers have become a favorite at family picnics and cookouts, bringing everyone together regardless of dietary preference.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains soy via soy sauce or tamari and gluten if you use standard oats or buns. Always check labels for cross-contamination risk.
Nutritional Information
Each burger (without bun or toppings): 210 calories, 6 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, 9 g protein.
Pin Enjoy these wholesome burgers hot from the skillet with your favorite toppings—they're sure to impress at your next gathering.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I ensure the burgers hold together well?
Using ground flaxseed soaked in water as a binder helps the mixture hold together without eggs. Letting the patties rest before cooking also improves their texture.
- → Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free rolled oats and buns, and substitute tamari for soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → What cooking method works best for these patties?
Cooking in a nonstick skillet with olive oil over medium heat until golden brown creates a crispy exterior and tender inside.
- → How can I add more heat to the flavor?
Incorporate chopped jalapeño or chipotle into the mixture to give the patties a spicy kick.
- → Can these patties be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping can firm up the patties and make cooking easier.
- → What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve on whole wheat or gluten-free buns with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and your choice of vegan mayonnaise or ketchup.