Best Vegetarian Burger Recipe

This vegetarian burger recipe combines a variety of wholesome ingredients to create a delicious, hearty, and satisfying burger that is perfect for grilling or pan-frying. It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a great choice for any meal.

Ingredients

For the Burger Patties:

• Flax Egg:
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/2 cup water
• Beans:
• 3 cups cooked black beans (about two 15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed)
• Nuts/Seeds:
• 1 cup cashews or sunflower seeds (finely chopped)
• Grains:
• 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
• Vegetables:
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions
• Binders:
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• Spices:
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• Salt to taste

For the Burger Sauce:

• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar
• A few shakes of black pepper

To Serve:

• Burger buns of your choice
• Lettuce or arugula
• Tomato slices
• Red onion slices
• Optional: Vegan cheese slices

Instructions

Prepare the Flax Egg:

• In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with water and let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens.

Mash the Black Beans:

• In a large mixing bowl, mash the black beans with a potato masher until mostly smooth but still chunky.

Combine Ingredients:

• Add the chopped cashews, flax egg, cooked rice/quinoa, parsley, shredded carrots, green onions, breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt to the bowl with the mashed beans. Mix until well combined.

Form Patties:

• Using about half a cup of the mixture per burger, shape into patties about three-quarters of an inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Chill for Firmness:

• Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up before cooking.

Cooking Options:

• Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for about five minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill patties for about six minutes on each side.
• Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Air fry patties in batches for about ten minutes, flipping halfway through.

Make the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.

Assemble Your Burgers:

• Place cooked patties on buns and top with lettuce, tomato slices, onion slices, and a drizzle of burger sauce. Add vegan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use Freshly Cooked Rice or Quinoa: This helps bind the mixture better than leftover grains.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before forming patties; adjust spices and salt as needed.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add unique toppings like avocado, pickled jalapeños, or specialty sauces to enhance flavor.

Best Vegetables to Add to a Veggie Burger

Incorporating a variety of vegetables into your veggie burger can enhance flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here are some great options:

1. Mushrooms: Shiitake or portobello mushrooms add a savory, umami flavor and a meaty texture.
2. Carrots: Shredded carrots provide sweetness and color while adding moisture.
3. Zucchini: Grated zucchini is hydrating and adds a mild flavor; just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
4. Spinach or Kale: Chopped leafy greens boost nutrition and add a slight bitterness that balances flavors.
5. Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) add sweetness and crunch.
6. Corn: Sweet corn kernels bring a burst of sweetness and texture.
7. Sweet Potatoes: Mashed sweet potatoes contribute natural sweetness and creaminess.

Making Veggie Burgers Crispy on the Outside and Juicy on the Inside

To achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy:

1. Use a Binding Agent: Incorporate ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water to help bind the ingredients together without making them too dense.
2. Add Starchy Ingredients: Include breadcrumbs or oats to help absorb moisture and create a crispy crust when cooked.
3. Chill the Patties: Refrigerate formed patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape and develop a firmer texture.
4. Cook at the Right Temperature: Use medium-high heat for frying or grilling to ensure a good sear without overcooking the inside.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients for Making Veggie Burgers

Creating veggie burgers on a budget is easy with these affordable ingredients:

1. Canned Beans: Black beans, chickpeas, or pinto beans are economical sources of protein.
2. Rice or Quinoa: Cooked rice (especially day-old) or quinoa are filling and inexpensive fillers.
3. Oats or Breadcrumbs: These are great for binding and can often be bought in bulk.
4. Seasonal Vegetables: Use what’s in season or on sale, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
5. Frozen Vegetables: Frozen corn, peas, or mixed veggies can be cheaper than fresh options.

Making Healthy Veggie Burgers

To ensure your veggie burgers are healthy:

1. Focus on Whole Foods: Use whole grains, legumes, nuts, and plenty of vegetables without relying on processed ingredients.
2. Limit Added Fats: Use minimal oil for cooking and choose healthy fats like avocado instead of mayonnaise-based sauces.
3. Incorporate Seeds and Nuts: These add healthy fats and protein while enhancing flavor and texture.
4. Control Sodium Levels: Use low-sodium canned beans and limit added salt; rely on herbs and spices for flavor.

Tips for Grilling the Perfect Veggie Burger

1. Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the patties on it to achieve a good sear.
2. Use Oil on the Grill Grates: Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking; you can also lightly oil the patties themselves.
3. Don’t Press Down on Patties: Avoid pressing down on burgers while cooking; this releases moisture and can lead to dryness.
4. Flip Carefully: Use a wide spatula to flip patties gently; they can be more fragile than meat burgers.
5. Cook Until Firm: Ensure that patties are cooked through until they are firm to the touch, which usually takes about 5-6 minutes per side over medium heat.

By following these tips and incorporating these ingredients, you can create delicious veggie burgers that are both satisfying and nutritious!

This vegetarian burger recipe is designed to be flavorful and satisfying while being easy to prepare. Enjoy your delicious homemade veggie burgers!

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