Black Bean Burger with Green Chile Mayo
Hearty, flavorful black bean patties packed with corn and spices, pan-fried to perfection. Served on a toasted bun with a zesty, creamy green chile mayo for a true Southwestern kick.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Green Chile Mayo
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, drained green chiles, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and garlic powder until smooth.
- c.Season with a pinch of salt if desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This can be made a day ahead.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Black Bean Mixture
- b.After rinsing and draining the black beans, spread them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and pat them very dry. Let them air-dry for 10 minutes for the best texture.
- c.In a large bowl, add about half of the dried black beans. Mash them with a fork or potato masher until a thick, coarse paste forms.
- d.To the bowl, add the remaining whole black beans, panko breadcrumbs, thawed corn, chopped onion, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, 0.75 tsp salt, and black pepper.
- e.Gently mix with a spatula or your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties dense.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Form and Chill the Patties
- b.Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking.
- c.Form each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than your burger buns, as they will shrink slightly during cooking.
- d.Place the formed patties on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 1 hour) to help them firm up and hold their shape.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Black Bean Patties
- b.Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. The oil should be shimmering before you add the patties.
- c.Carefully place the chilled patties in the hot pan, ensuring not to crowd them. Cook in batches if necessary.
- d.Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until a dark, crisp crust has formed and the patties are heated through. Flip only once to prevent them from breaking.
- e.During the last minute of cooking, you can toast the burger buns, cut-side down, in the same pan or in a separate toaster.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Spread a generous layer of the prepared green chile mayo on both the top and bottom toasted buns.
- c.Place a cooked black bean patty on the bottom bun.
- d.Layer with your desired toppings, such as lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion.
- e.Cover with the top bun and serve immediately while hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The key to non-mushy burgers is dry beans. For extra-firm patties, spread the rinsed beans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to dry them out before mashing.
- 2Don't skip the chilling step! It's crucial for helping the patties bind together and not fall apart during cooking.
- 3For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the patty mixture or a drop of liquid smoke.
- 4Handle the patties gently, especially when flipping. A wide, thin spatula works best.
- 5If the mixture seems too wet to form patties, add more panko breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the large egg with a 'flax egg' (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes). Use a vegan mayonnaise for the green chile mayo.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Serve on gluten-free burger buns.
SpicierSpicier
Use hot green chiles instead of mild. Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) to the patty mixture.
Extra VeggiesExtra Veggies
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped bell peppers (any color) or shredded carrots to the patty mixture for extra nutrients and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Black beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance, making these burgers a satisfying and nutritious meal.
High in Dietary Fiber
With a significant amount of fiber from the black beans, corn, and onion, these burgers support digestive health, help maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promote a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
Heart-Healthy Choice
This burger is naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free. The fiber and potassium in black beans contribute to cardiovascular health by helping to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
A single Black Bean Burger with Green Chile Mayo and a standard bun has approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the specific brands of ingredients and toppings used.