Spiced Black Bean Burger Patties
A hearty, flavorful, and satisfying plant-based burger patty that's packed with protein and fiber. Perfectly spiced with cumin and chili, these patties are easy to make and hold together beautifully on the grill or in a pan.
For 4 servings
Cook the black beans.
- Drain the soaked black beans and rinse them well.
- Place the beans in a pressure cooker with 3 cups of fresh water.
- Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally. Drain any excess water and let the beans cool slightly.
TIPIf you don't have a pressure cooker, you can boil the soaked beans in a large pot for 60-90 minutes until tender.Sauté the aromatics.
While the beans cook, heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the burger mixture.
- In a large bowl, add the cooked black beans. Mash them with a potato masher or fork until about half are broken down, leaving some texture.
- Add the sautéed onion and garlic, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, vital wheat gluten, cumin, chili powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
TIPLeaving some beans whole adds a great meaty texture to the burgers.Chill the mixture.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. This step is crucial for the patties to firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
Form the patties.
Divide the chilled mixture into 4 equal portions. Form each portion into a patty, about 3/4-inch thick. Make them slightly larger than your burger buns, as they will shrink a little during cooking.
Cook the burger patties.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, ensuring not to crowd the pan.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned, crisp on the outside, and heated through.
- The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
TIPOnly flip the patties once to help them stay intact and develop a good crust.Serve the burgers.
Serve the spiced black bean patties hot on your favorite buns with desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the cooked beans are well-drained and even patted dry to avoid a mushy burger mixture.
- 2Chilling the mixture is not optional! It helps the binders work and prevents the patties from falling apart.
- 3For a smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the mixture.
- 4These patties are great for meal prep. Formed, uncooked patties can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the two eggs with two flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes). Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is a vegan variety.
gluten freeGluten free
Omit the vital wheat gluten and use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or an equal amount of oat flour. The patties will be a bit more delicate.
spicySpicy
Add one finely chopped jalapeño or 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture along with the other spices.
quickQuick
Instead of cooking beans from scratch, use one 15-ounce can of black beans. Rinse, drain, and pat them very dry before mashing.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Plant-Based Protein
Black beans and vital wheat gluten provide a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and building, making it a satisfying option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
High in Dietary Fiber
With black beans and whole wheat breadcrumbs, these patties are rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Complex Carbohydrates
The complex carbs from beans provide a steady release of energy, unlike the simple carbs found in many processed foods.
Packed with Micronutrients
Black beans are a good source of essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate, which support energy levels and overall cellular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy choice. It's packed with plant-based protein, high in dietary fiber which aids digestion, and made with whole-food ingredients. Pan-frying with minimal oil keeps the fat content in check.