Save 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 on a camping trip when we needed something quick to put together in under half an hour. Everyone was impressed with the taste and texture, and they asked for the recipe to make at home.
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 (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
- Whole wheat or gluten-free burger buns: 4 (optional)
- Lettuce leaves: (optional)
- Tomato slices: (optional)
- Avocado slices: (optional)
- Vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare egg replacer:
- In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed with water. 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 vegetables and spices:
- Add oats, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beans. Mix well.
- Combine with flax mixture:
- Stir in the flaxseed mixture to combine thoroughly.
- Rest mixture:
- Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture.
- Shape patties:
- Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Cook:
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5 minutes per side, until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Save Whenever my family gathers for cookouts, black bean burgers are a favorite for everyone—including the meat lovers. Kids especially enjoy customizing their own with different toppings.
Required Tools
Gather mixing bowls, a fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, and measuring spoons and cups before starting.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains soy if using soy sauce and gluten if using regular oats or buns. Always double-check product labels for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each burger (without bun or toppings) supplies about 210 calories, 6 g fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein.
Save Enjoy these black bean burgers hot and fresh with your favorite accompaniments. They taste even better the next day!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular oats with gluten-free oats and choose gluten-free buns to avoid gluten.
- → What can I use as an egg replacer in this dish?
Ground flaxseed mixed with water acts as a binder, providing structure similar to eggs.
- → How do I achieve a crispy exterior when cooking?
Cook the patties in a hot nonstick skillet with olive oil for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- → Can I add more heat to the patties?
Yes, include chopped jalapeños or chipotle for a spicier kick.
- → Are these burgers suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets?
Absolutely, these patties contain no animal products and are suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets.
- → What toppings pair well with these black bean burgers?
Common choices include lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, and vegan mayonnaise or ketchup.