Here’s a delicious recipe for Mushroom & Quinoa Burgers that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the nutritious benefits of quinoa and flaxseed meal. These burgers are packed with flavor and make for a satisfying meal!

Mushroom & Quinoa Burger Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (about 1/3 cup dry quinoa)
• 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup flaxseed meal
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa:

• Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Combine 1/3 cup dry quinoa with 2/3 cup water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

Sauté the Vegetables:

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika.

Combine Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed mushroom mixture, flaxseed meal, and breadcrumbs. Add soy sauce and mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Form Patties:

• Using your hands, form the mixture into patties (about 4-6 depending on your preferred size). If the mixture is too wet to hold together, add more breadcrumbs or flaxseed meal as needed.

Chill:

• Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.

Cook the Patties:

• You can either bake or pan-fry the patties:
  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Pan-Frying: Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Serve:

• Serve your mushroom and quinoa burgers on buns with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or vegan mayo.

Tips

• For added flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
• These burgers can be frozen; just ensure they are well-wrapped before freezing.

Here are some helpful tips and ideas for making Mushroom and Quinoa Burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and versatile:

Tips for Making Juicy and Flavorful Mushroom and Quinoa Burgers

1. Sauté Mushrooms: Sautéing the mushrooms before mixing them into the burger mixture helps to enhance their umami flavor and reduces moisture, which can prevent the patties from becoming soggy.
2. Use Fresh Herbs and Spices: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil, along with spices such as smoked paprika or cumin, to elevate the flavor profile of the burgers.
3. Add a Liquid Flavor Booster: Using soy sauce or tamari can add depth to the flavor and help keep the patties moist.
4. Incorporate a Fat Source: Adding a small amount of olive oil or vegan mayonnaise to the mixture can increase moisture and richness.

Alternative Grains for Burger Patties

Yes, you can use other types of grains instead of quinoa. Some good alternatives include:

• Brown Rice: Offers a similar texture and nutty flavor.
• Farro: Provides a chewy texture and is rich in nutrients.
• Barley: Adds a hearty texture and is high in fiber.
• Millet: A gluten-free option that works well in veggie burgers.

Adding Crunch to Mushroom and Quinoa Burger Patties

1. Nuts or Seeds: Incorporate chopped walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds into the mixture for added crunch and nutrition.
2. Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a coating on the outside of the patties before cooking for an extra crispy texture.
3. Vegetables: Add finely chopped bell peppers or carrots to the mixture to introduce additional texture.

Good Marinades for Mushroom and Quinoa Burgers

1. Soy Sauce Marinade: Mix soy sauce with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor.
2. Balsamic Vinegar Marinade: Combine balsamic vinegar with olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs for a tangy marinade.
3. Chipotle Marinade: Blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with lime juice and garlic for a smoky kick.

Freezing Mushroom and Quinoa Burger Patties

Yes, you can freeze mushroom and quinoa burger patties for later use. Here’s how:

1. Form the patties as usual.
2. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
3. Once frozen, transfer the patties to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, you can bake them directly from frozen or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

These tips will help you create delicious mushroom and quinoa burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal! Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients!

Enjoy your homemade Mushroom & Quinoa Burgers! They are hearty, nutritious, and perfect for any meal!