Name: Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup walnuts; 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed); 3/4 cup yellow onion (diced); 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 2 Tbsp tamari; 1 Tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce; 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Fresh lettuce, onion, tomato and other desired toppings

If you’re searching for a delicious, satisfying, and healthy burger option, look no further than this Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!). Packed with protein, fiber, and an array of flavors, this burger is not only easy to make but also a hit with both vegans and meat-eaters alike. With the crunch of walnuts and the heartiness of black beans, this burger is sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Serve it on whole grain buns with your favorite toppings, and you have a meal that is both nutritious and delicious!

Why It’s My Go-To

This Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!) has become my go-to recipe for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make and requires only a few ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of black beans and walnuts not only provides a fantastic texture but also a robust flavor that can stand up to any traditional beef burger. Moreover, it’s completely oil-free, making it a heart-healthy choice without sacrificing taste. Topped with fresh veggies and your favorite BBQ sauce, this burger is perfect for summer cookouts or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredient List

1 cup walnuts
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
3/4 cup yellow onion, diced
2 Tbsp tomato paste
2 Tbsp tamari
1 Tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Whole grain buns (gluten-free if desired)
BBQ sauce
Fresh lettuce, onion, tomato, and other desired toppings

Before You Start: Equipment

Food Processor: Essential for blending the ingredients into a cohesive mixture.
Baking Sheet: To bake the burgers in the oven.
Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Spatula: Useful for flipping and serving the burgers.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.

Stepwise Method: Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!)

Step 1: Prepare the Walnuts

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until they are fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and crunch.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, rolled oats, black beans, diced onion, tomato paste, tamari, vegan Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Pulse the mixture until it’s well combined but still has some texture. Be careful not to over-process; you want the mixture to hold together but not be completely smooth.

Step 3: Shape the Burgers

Once the mixture is ready, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Use your hands to shape the mixture into patties. This recipe should yield about 4-6 burger patties, depending on your desired size.

Step 4: Bake the Burgers

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the burger patties on it. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the burgers are firm and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Assemble Your Burger

Once the burgers are done baking, it’s time to assemble! Toast your whole grain buns, then layer on the Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!), top with BBQ sauce, fresh lettuce, onion, and tomato, or any of your other favorite toppings.

Ingredient Flex Options

Replace walnuts with pecans or sunflower seeds for a different flavor.
Use gluten-free oats to make the recipe completely gluten-free.
Add in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and nutrients.
Experiment with different spices such as chili powder or Italian herbs for a unique twist.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making the Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!), you may encounter a few common pitfalls:

Too Crumbly: If your mixture is too dry and crumbly, add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to help bind it together.
Burnt Patties: Keep an eye on the burgers while they’re baking, as oven temperatures can vary. If they seem to be browning too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly.
Over-Processing: Make sure to blend just until combined; over-processing can lead to a paste-like texture.
Insufficient Flavor: Adjust the seasonings according to your taste, adding more spices or herbs if necessary.

Shelf Life & Storage

The Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can shape the patties and freeze them. Just place parchment paper between the patties to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Quick Q&A

Can I grill these burgers instead of baking them?

Yes! These burgers can be grilled. Just make sure your grill is preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side.

Are these burgers suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These burgers are great for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

What can I serve with these burgers?

These burgers pair perfectly with a side of sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor.

Can I make these burgers gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free oats and ensure that your burger buns are gluten-free as well.

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Make It Tonight

With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, the Black Bean Walnut Burger (Vegan, Oil-Free!) can be on your dinner table tonight. It’s a fantastic option for a family meal, a casual get-together with friends, or just a cozy night in. The flavor-packed patties are sure to please everyone, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings to make each burger unique. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and the satisfaction of a homemade meal that is both nourishing and delicious!