Save Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers with a crispy exterior and tender center—perfect for a budget-friendly, protein-rich vegetarian or vegan meal.
The first time I made these black bean burgers for my family, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. Even the kids, normally skeptical of veggie burgers, loved them because of the satisfying texture and warm spices.
Ingredients
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Rolled oats: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Red onion: 1/2 small, finely chopped
- Carrot: 1 small, grated
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground flaxseed (or chia seed): 2 tbsp + 6 tbsp water (egg replacer)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp (or other vegetable oil)
- Burger buns: 4 whole wheat or gluten-free, optional
- Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, avocado slices, vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: For serving, optional
Instructions
- Mix Flaxseed:
- In a small bowl, combine ground flaxseed and water. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Mash Beans:
- In a large bowl, mash black beans using a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
- Add Veggies & Spices:
- Add oats, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add Binder:
- Stir in the thickened flaxseed mixture to combine thoroughly.
- Rest Mixture:
- Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture.
- Shape Patties:
- Form the mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Cook Burgers:
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 5 minutes on each side until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve patties on buns with desired toppings.
Save I love making these burgers with my kids—they enjoy helping to mash the beans and choose their own toppings. It always makes for a fun dinner together.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, a fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons and cups are all the tools you need for these burgers.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains soy (soy sauce or tamari) and gluten if using regular oats or buns. Always check packaging if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Each burger (without bun or toppings) contains approximately 210 calories, 6 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein.
Save Enjoy these burgers fresh from the skillet, or freeze them for busy nights. They're nourishing, flexible, and always a hit around our table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What binds the black bean patties together?
Ground flaxseed mixed with water creates a gel-like binder, helping hold the patties without eggs.
- → Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free oats and buns, and opt for tamari instead of soy sauce to keep them gluten-free.
- → How do I achieve a crispy exterior on the burgers?
Cook the patties in heated olive oil over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- → Are these burgers suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely. The use of flaxseed as a binder and plant-based ingredients makes them vegan-friendly.
- → Can I add extra spice to the patties?
Yes, incorporating chopped jalapeño or chipotle pepper adds a spicy kick to the flavor profile.