Save to Pinterest 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 and satisfying for everyone at the table.
I first made these black bean burgers when searching for a simple and nutritious dinner. The toasted patties came out so delicious, even the most dedicated meat lovers asked for seconds. Now they're requested often for weeknight meals.
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): 2 tbsp + 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 (or other vegetable oil): 2 tbsp for cooking
- Burger buns: 4 whole wheat or gluten-free (optional)
- Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, avocado slices, vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: To serve (optional)
Instructions
- Make Flaxseed Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed with water and set aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Mash Beans:
- In a large bowl, mash black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
- Add Ingredients:
- Add oats, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beans and mix well.
- Combine Binder:
- Stir in the flaxseed mixture to combine thoroughly.
- Rest:
- Let mixture rest for 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture.
- Shape Patties:
- Shape mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Cook:
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side, until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Save to Pinterest Our family loves how customizable these burgers are—everyone gets to pile on their favorite toppings. Last summer, the kids helped mash the beans and shape the patties.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons and cups are all you need for this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains soy (soy sauce/tamari) and may contain gluten if using regular oats or buns. Always check labels for cross-contamination if you have food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each burger (without bun or toppings) has about 210 calories, 6 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy a hearty meal that comes together quickly and turns out crispy and flavorful every time. These burgers are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What ingredients help bind the black bean patties?
Ground flaxseed mixed with water acts as a vegan binding agent, helping to hold the patties together without eggs.
- → How can I achieve a crispy texture on the patties?
Cooking the patties in olive oil over medium heat for several minutes per side creates a golden, crispy crust while keeping the center tender.
- → Are these patties suitable for gluten-free diets?
Using gluten-free oats and buns, along with tamari instead of soy sauce, makes these patties gluten-free.
- → Can I add extra spice to the black bean patties?
Yes, incorporating ingredients like chopped jalapeño or chipotle adds a smoky heat to the patties.
- → How should I prepare the patties for grilling?
Chill the shaped patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before grilling to help them hold their shape.
- → What toppings complement these black bean patties?
Fresh lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, vegan mayonnaise, or ketchup enhance the flavors when served on buns.