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Smoky Black Bean Burger Patties

Close-up of a dark, well-seared Smoky Black Bean Burger Patty resting on a white plate.

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A recipe for firm, flavorful black bean burger patties featuring a distinct smoky taste, designed to hold shape during cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
  • 1/4 teaspoon chipotle powder (or more for extra heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari

Instructions

  1. Place the rinsed and drained black beans on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Pat them very dry with more paper towels. This step helps prevent mushy burgers.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  3. In a large bowl, mash about two-thirds of the dried black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly broken down but still slightly chunky. Leave the remaining beans whole for texture.
  4. Add the rolled oats, cooked onion and garlic mixture, smoked paprika, liquid smoke, chipotle powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and soy sauce to the mashed beans.
  5. Mix all ingredients thoroughly with your hands or a sturdy spoon until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should be firm enough to shape. If it seems too wet, add 1 tablespoon more oats.
  6. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Form each portion into a firm patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Press the edges firmly to prevent crumbling.
  7. Place the formed patties on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This firms them up further.
  8. Cook the patties: For pan-frying, heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5 to 7 minutes per side until heated through and a crust forms. For grilling or baking, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes per side, flipping carefully.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
  • If you do not have liquid smoke, increase the smoked paprika to 1 1/2 teaspoons and add 1/2 teaspoon of regular paprika.
  • Serve on toasted buns with avocado, crisp lettuce, and a slice of tomato to complement the smoky flavor.

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