For the Burger Patties:

• 1 ½ cups Cooked Black Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Black beans form the hearty base of our burger, providing protein, fiber, and a wonderful earthy flavor. Make sure they are well-drained to avoid a soggy patty. You can use canned beans for convenience, or cook your own from dried for even deeper flavor.
• 1 cup Cooked Brown Rice or Quinoa: This adds structure and helps bind the patties together. Brown rice offers a slightly chewy texture and nutty flavor, while quinoa brings a lighter, fluffier texture and is naturally gluten-free. Ensure your rice or quinoa is cooked until tender but not mushy.
• 1 cup Finely Chopped Vegetables (Choose a combination of): This is where you can really customize your burger and pack in extra nutrients and flavor. Consider these options:

  • Onion: Essential for savory depth. Yellow or white onion works best.
  • Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness, color, and a subtle smoky note, especially if roasted first.
  • Mushrooms (Cremini or Button): Contribute umami and a meaty texture. Sauté them lightly to release their moisture and enhance their flavor.
  • Carrot: Adds sweetness and moisture. Grate it finely for even distribution.
  • Zucchini: A mild vegetable that adds moisture and bulk. Grate it and squeeze out excess water before adding.

• ½ cup Rolled Oats (Quick-cooking or Old-fashioned): Oats act as a binder, absorbing moisture and helping the patties hold their shape. Quick-cooking oats are slightly finer and blend in more seamlessly, while old-fashioned oats provide a bit more texture. Gluten-free rolled oats can be used for a gluten-free option.
• ¼ cup Chopped Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Fresh herbs brighten the flavor and add a touch of freshness. Parsley offers a mild, slightly peppery flavor, while cilantro brings a bolder, citrusy note. Choose your favorite or a combination of both.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse, adding pungent aroma and savory depth. Mince it finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the patties.
• 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce or Tamari (for Gluten-Free): Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) provides umami and saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients. Olive oil also contributes to a slightly crispy exterior when cooking.
• 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice: Lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the other ingredients. Freshly squeezed is always best.
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky depth that mimics the grilled flavor of traditional burgers. It’s a key ingredient in making these vegetarian burgers truly satisfying.
• ½ teaspoon Ground Cumin: Cumin adds warmth and earthy notes, complementing the black beans and other spices.
• ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano: Oregano provides a savory, slightly peppery flavor that enhances the overall herbaceousness of the burger.
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste the patty mixture before forming the patties and adjust seasoning as needed.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor and Texture:

• 1–2 Tablespoons Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy, savory flavor that is popular in vegan cooking.
• 1–2 Tablespoons Ground Flaxseed or Chia Seeds mixed with 3-4 tablespoons water (Flax Egg or Chia Egg): For extra binding and a slight nutritional boost. Mix the seeds with water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken before adding to the mixture. This is especially helpful if you want a more vegan-friendly burger.
• A Pinch of Cayenne Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
• Finely Diced Sun-dried Tomatoes: Adds a chewy texture and intense, tangy flavor.
• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: For added crunch and nutty flavor.