This Delicious Vegan Bean Burger is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to bring together — the kind of plant-based burger that doesn’t feel like a compromise at all. It’s tender inside, crisp outside, and holds beautifully whether you serve it on a bun or in a fresh bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated carrot or finely chopped bell pepper
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2–3 tbsp oil for cooking
Optional swap: Use kidney beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have on hand.
Steps
- Mash the beans.
In a bowl, mash the beans until mostly smooth. Leave a few pieces for texture — it helps the patties stay hearty. - Add the veggies and seasonings.
Mix in onion, garlic, carrot, breadcrumbs, flaxseed, soy sauce, and all spices. Don’t worry if the mixture seems soft right now — it firms up as it rests. - Rest the mixture.
Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes so the flax and breadcrumbs can absorb moisture. This is the secret to burgers that don’t fall apart. - Shape the patties.
Form 4 even patties, pressing gently so they hold together without becoming dense. - Cook until golden.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until crisp around the edges and warmed through. - Let them settle.
Give them a minute to rest off the heat it helps the patties stay firm when you serve them.
Chef’s Tips
- If your mixture feels too wet, add a spoonful of breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water or a bit more soy sauce.
- Avoid over-flipping one good flip keeps the patties intact.
- Freeze uncooked patties between parchment sheets for quick future meals.
Variations
- Southwest Style: Add corn kernels and a pinch of chipotle powder.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped parsley, lemon zest, and a spoonful of tahini.
- BBQ Burger: Brush patties with BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking for a sticky, flavorful glaze.
