Quinoa Black Bean Burgers Recipe

Quinoa: A protein-rich grain that adds texture and nutrition to the burgers.

Black beans: Provides a hearty base and rich flavor, essential for the burger's structure.

Bread crumbs: Helps bind the ingredients together, giving the burgers their shape.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the mixture together.

Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch to the burgers.

Ground cumin: Infuses the burgers with a warm, earthy flavor.

Garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste with a hint of garlic.

Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the taste of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the burgers.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the patties, giving them a crispy exterior.

When mashing the black beans, ensure they are mostly smooth but still have some texture. This will help the quinoa black bean burgers hold together better and provide a more satisfying bite. Additionally, finely chop the onion to ensure it incorporates evenly into the mixture, preventing any large chunks that might cause the patties to fall apart.

• cooked quinoa - Substitute with cooked brown rice: Brown rice provides a similar texture and nutritional profile, making it a good alternative.

• black beans - Substitute with kidney beans: Kidney beans have a similar texture and flavor, making them a suitable replacement.

• bread crumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can help bind the ingredients together while keeping the recipe gluten-free.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water) works as a vegan binder.

• finely chopped onion - Substitute with finely chopped shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander provides a different but complementary flavor profile.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can add a similar depth of flavor if garlic powder is unavailable.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add both saltiness and umami, enhancing the overall flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.

• Allow the quinoa black bean burgers to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation and sogginess when storing.
• Place the cooled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. This step helps to freeze them individually without sticking together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the patties freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid.
• Once frozen, remove the patties from the baking sheet and place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label the container with the date for easy reference.
• For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled patties in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen patties on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the patties in a skillet. Heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat and cook the frozen patties for 6-8 minutes on each side, until warmed through and golden brown.
• For a quick microwave option, place a frozen patty on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Note that this method may result in a softer texture.
• When ready to serve, pair the reheated quinoa black bean burgers with fresh buns and your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, or cheese.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quinoa black bean burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures the burgers stay crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the burgers in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through. This method helps to maintain the crispy texture of the burgers.

• Microwave Method: Place the burgers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. This is the quickest method, but it may result in a softer texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the quinoa black bean burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will give you a crispy exterior similar to the original cooking.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers on the toaster oven tray and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is convenient and effective for small batches.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and mix all the ingredients together.

• Fork: Used to mash the black beans until mostly smooth.

• Measuring cups: Essential for measuring out the cooked quinoa and bread crumbs accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Needed to measure the ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Knife: For finely chopping the onion.

• Cutting board: A surface to chop the onion on.

• Skillet: Used to cook the patties over medium heat.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties in the skillet.

• Plate: To place the formed patties before cooking.

• Can opener: To open the can of black beans.

• Paper towels: For draining and rinsing the black beans.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Chop the onion and cook the quinoa in advance to save time when assembling the burgers.

Use a food processor: Quickly mash the black beans and mix the ingredients using a food processor for a smoother texture and faster preparation.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating the olive oil in the skillet while forming the patties to reduce waiting time.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra patties for a quick meal later.

Ready-to-use toppings: Have your favorite toppings prepped and ready to go for faster assembly.