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 protein for the patties.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture together.

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

Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.

Garlic powder: Enhances the savory taste.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the patties until golden brown.

When mashing the black beans, ensure they are mostly smooth but still retain some texture. This will help the quinoa black bean burgers hold together better and provide a more satisfying bite. Additionally, if the mixture feels too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to achieve the desired consistency.

• 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, and they work well in binding the burger mixture.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats can help bind the mixture together and add a bit of texture.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water) is a great vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• cumin - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a different but complementary flavor profile to the burgers.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions add a fresh and slightly sweet flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice to the burgers.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a good alternative for cooking and adds a subtle flavor.

• Allow the quinoa black bean burgers to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation, which can make the burgers soggy.
• Place the cooled burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other to avoid sticking.
• Freeze the burgers on the baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. This step is crucial for maintaining their shape.
• Once frozen, transfer the burgers to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled burgers in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen burgers on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the burgers in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and cook the frozen burgers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until warmed through.
• If reheating from the refrigerator, simply warm the burgers in a skillet with a bit of olive oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
• For added flavor, consider brushing the burgers with a bit of barbecue sauce or your favorite condiment before reheating.
• Serve the reheated burgers on fresh buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or cheese.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover quinoa black bean burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• 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 about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are warmed through and have a nice golden crust.

• Microwave Method: Place the burgers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heated evenly.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the burgers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are heated through and have nice grill marks.

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

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

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

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

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the patties over medium heat.

• Spatula: Useful for flipping the patties in the skillet to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

• Can opener: Required to open the can of black beans.

• Colander: Used to drain and rinse the black beans after opening the can.

• Whisk: Handy for beating the egg before adding it to the mixture.

• Measuring jug: Useful for measuring out the olive oil for cooking.

• Plate: To place the formed patties before cooking them in the skillet.

• Paper towels: To blot any excess oil from the cooked patties before serving.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Cook the quinoa and rinse the black beans ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly mash the black beans and mix the ingredients using a food processor to save time.

Preheat the skillet: While forming the patties, preheat the skillet to ensure it's ready for cooking.

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

Use pre-made breadcrumbs: Save time by using store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making your own.