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Epic Black Bean Burger Recipe

4.6 from 138 reviews

This Epic Black Bean Burger recipe is a delicious and hearty vegetarian option, featuring a flavorful blend of black beans, spices, and fresh ingredients. Perfectly pan-fried to a golden crisp, these burgers are a satisfying meatless alternative that can be customized with your favorite toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets with a simple egg substitute.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Burger Patties

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 large egg (or 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water for vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil (for sautéing and frying)

For Serving

  • 4 burger buns
  • Toppings: lettuce, tomato, avocado, cheese (as desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Black Beans: Drain and rinse the black beans under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess sodium and canning liquids.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, then remove from heat.
  3. Mash Beans and Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mash the black beans using a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture. Add the sautéed onions and garlic.
  4. Mix the Patty Ingredients: To the mashed beans, add the breadcrumbs, egg (or flaxseed mixture for vegan option), ground cumin, chili powder, chopped cilantro (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  5. Shape Patties: Divide the mixture evenly and shape into four uniform burger patties.
  6. Cook the Burgers: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each patty for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through, ensuring they hold together firmly.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Place the cooked patties on burger buns and add your preferred toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, and cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water; let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before using.
  • Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs according to your flavor preference.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, adding extra chili powder or cumin for more spice.
  • Ensure the patties are cooked on medium-high heat to achieve a crispy exterior without burning.
  • Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to two days and reheated in a skillet.

Keywords: black bean burger, vegetarian burger, meatless burger, vegan burger option, healthy burger, skillet burger, black bean recipe