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Sturdy Black Bean Burgers for Grilling

A close-up of a perfectly grilled, sturdy black bean burger patty showing distinct grill marks on a white plate.
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Make a high-protein, flavorful black bean burger patty that holds together perfectly on the grill, offering a satisfying meatless option.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten (or flax egg for vegan option)

Instructions

  1. Place the rinsed and drained black beans on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Pat them very dry. This step is key for a sturdy patty.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the dried black beans, cooked brown rice, breadcrumbs, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
  4. Mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher until about two-thirds of the beans are broken down, leaving some texture. Do not over-mash into a paste.
  5. Add the lightly beaten egg to the mixture and mix until just combined. If the mixture seems too wet, add 1 more tablespoon of breadcrumbs.
  6. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties about 3/4 inch thick. Place the patties on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up for grilling.
  7. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F). Lightly oil the grill grates.
  8. Carefully place the chilled black bean burgers on the oiled grates. Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until heated through and nicely browned. Avoid moving them until they are ready to flip.
  9. Serve immediately on your favorite buns with desired toppings.

Notes

  • For a vegan grilling experience, substitute the egg with one flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
  • If you prefer not to grill, you can bake these patties at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • To make these patties ahead, form them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/black-bean-burger-grilling-secrets/