Best Veggie Burger Recipe

This veggie burger recipe combines hearty ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying burger that can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. It’s packed with flavor and texture, making it a perfect choice for any meal.

Ingredients

For the Veggie Burger Patties:

• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed mixed with 1/2 cup water (flax egg)
• 3 cups cooked black beans (about two 15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup cashews or sunflower seeds (finely chopped)
• 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• Salt to taste

For the Easy Burger Sauce:

• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar
• A few shakes of black pepper

To Serve:

• Burger buns of your choice
• Lettuce or arugula
• Tomato slices
• Red onion slices
• Additional condiments (mayo, mustard, ketchup, pickles)

Instructions

Prepare the Flax Egg:

• In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with water and set aside for about five minutes to thicken.

Mash the Black Beans:

• In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still chunky for texture.

Chop the Cashews:

• Use a food processor to pulse the cashews into small crumbs (not powder). Add them to the bowl with the mashed beans.

Combine Ingredients:

• Add the flax egg, cooked rice/quinoa, parsley, carrots, green onions, breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt to the bean mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Shape Patties:

• Scoop out about half a cup of the mixture and form it into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Repeat until you have approximately 12 patties.

Cooking Options:

• Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for about five minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Grill: Chill patties in the fridge for about 30 minutes before grilling on a medium-high oiled grill until crispy on both sides.
• Bake: Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Flip and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Place patties in the air fryer basket at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Make the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.

Assemble Your Burgers:

• Place cooked patties on buns and top with lettuce, tomato slices, onion slices, and a drizzle of burger sauce.

Tips for Success

• Texture Variations: Feel free to substitute black beans with other beans like chickpeas or lentils.
• Add More Flavor: Incorporate spices like cumin or coriander for additional flavor.
• Make Ahead: The patties can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days or frozen for longer storage.

Unique Toppings for Veggie Burgers

To elevate your veggie burgers, consider these unique toppings that add flavor and texture:

1. Avocado Smash with Sriracha Mayo: Creamy avocado topped with a spicy mayo gives a rich and zesty kick.
2. Pineapple Salsa: A mix of diced pineapple, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice adds a sweet and tangy burst.
3. BBQ Jackfruit: Shredded jackfruit cooked in BBQ sauce mimics pulled pork, offering a satisfying texture.
4. Kimchi: This spicy Korean pickled cabbage adds crunch and a vinegary element, enhancing the burger’s flavor profile.
5. Hummus: Spread flavored hummus (like roasted red pepper or chipotle) for a creamy, protein-rich topping.
6. Grilled Halloumi Cheese: Adds a chewy texture and savory flavor that complements the burger.
7. Fried Egg: For non-vegan options, a fried egg adds richness and can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Making Veggie Burgers That Don’t Fall Apart

To ensure your veggie burgers hold together well:

• Use Binding Agents: Incorporate ingredients like ground flaxseed mixed with water (flax egg), breadcrumbs, or oats to help bind the mixture.
• Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the burger mixture for at least 30 minutes before forming patties; this helps them firm up.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to maintain some texture without making the mixture too mushy.
• Use Cooked Grains: Use day-old cooked rice or quinoa as they are less sticky and provide structure.

Best Grains to Use in Veggie Burgers

The best grains to incorporate into veggie burgers include:

• Brown Rice: Offers a chewy texture and nutty flavor.
• Quinoa: A protein-rich grain that binds well and adds a fluffy texture.
• Oats: Can be ground into flour or used whole for added fiber and texture.
• Barley: Adds a hearty chewiness to the burger mixture.

Different Types of Beans in Veggie Burgers

Yes, you can use various types of beans in veggie burgers:

• Black Beans: Popular for their rich flavor and creamy texture when mashed.
• Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): Provide a nutty taste and work well in Mediterranean-style burgers.
• Kidney Beans: Their firm texture holds up well in patties.
• Lentils: Cooked lentils can add protein and a unique texture; they work well in combination with other ingredients.

Making Veggie Burgers Healthy and Flavorful

To create veggie burgers that are both healthy and flavorful:

1. Incorporate Vegetables: Add finely chopped or grated veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for moisture and nutrients.
2. Use Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) and spices (such as cumin or smoked paprika) enhance flavor without adding calories.
3. Opt for Whole Grains: Use whole grains like brown rice or quinoa instead of refined grains for added fiber and nutrients.
4. Limit Processed Ingredients: Minimize the use of processed sauces; instead, use fresh toppings like salsa, guacamole, or homemade sauces for flavor.

By incorporating these tips, you can create delicious veggie burgers that are satisfying, nutritious, and full of flavor!

This veggie burger recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences while providing a hearty and nutritious meal option! Enjoy your homemade veggie burgers with your favorite sides!