Pin Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers with a crispy exterior and tender center—perfect for a budget-friendly, protein-rich vegetarian or vegan meal.
I first made these burgers when looking for a protein-rich option that everyone could enjoy, and they quickly became a favorite for weeknight dinners.
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 vegetable oil): 2 tbsp
- Burger buns: 4 whole wheat or gluten-free (optional)
- Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, avocado slices, vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare flaxseed mixture:
- Mix ground flaxseed with water in a small bowl 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:
- Combine beans with oats, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in binder:
- Add the thickened flaxseed mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Rest mixture:
- Let mixture sit for 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture.
- Shape patties:
- Divide and shape into 4 equal burger patties.
- Cook patties:
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5 to 6 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve on buns with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, and sauces.
Pin Sharing these burgers at family gatherings always brings everyone together, regardless of dietary preferences.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains soy if using soy sauce, and gluten if regular oats or buns are used. Always check product labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per burger without bun or toppings: 210 calories, 6 g total fat, 31 g carbs, 9 g protein
Pin Enjoy these burgers fresh from the skillet, or chill leftovers for a quick meal the next day.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve a crispy crust on the patties?
Cook the patties in a hot nonstick skillet with a bit of oil, allowing each side to brown for 5-6 minutes until golden and crisp.
- → Can I substitute flaxseed for another binder?
Yes, chia seeds mixed with water work similarly as an egg replacer, providing moisture and binding properties.
- → What are good toppings to complement the flavors?
Lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, and vegan mayonnaise or ketchup enhance the texture and taste without overwhelming the patties.
- → How can I make these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free oats and buns, and replace soy sauce with tamari to avoid gluten contamination.
- → Is it possible to add heat to these patties?
Yes, incorporating chopped jalapeño or chipotle adds a spicy kick while maintaining balance with other spices.