Easy Black Bean Burger Recipe

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 (400g) cans black beans, drained and rinsed</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 small red onion, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 cloves garlic, minced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 red bell pepper, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g rolled oats</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">60g breadcrumbs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large egg (or 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water for vegan option)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for cooking</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp cumin</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp smoked paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp chili powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30g fresh coriander, chopped</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">4 burger buns, for serving</li></ul>

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Food processor or potato masher</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Baking sheet</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li></ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation ensures your burgers will bake evenly and won't stick to the tray.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Spread the drained black beans on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. This crucial step removes excess moisture from the beans, preventing your burgers from becoming mushy. You'll know they're ready when the beans start to split and the skins begin to peel.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>While the beans are drying in the oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This pre-cooking of vegetables releases their moisture and intensifies their flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Place the dried black beans in a food processor and pulse several times until roughly chopped – not puréed. You want to maintain some texture for the perfect burger consistency. If you don't have a food processor, use a potato masher to achieve a similar texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped beans, sautéed vegetables, oats, breadcrumbs, egg (or flax egg), remaining olive oil, and all the spices. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold together when pressed – if it's too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of olive oil.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 2.5cm thick. Press firmly while shaping to ensure they hold together. Place the formed patties on the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the ingredients to bind together, reducing the chance of crumbling during cooking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Brush the patties lightly with olive oil on both sides, which will help them develop a beautiful crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip and bake for another 10 minutes until firm and lightly browned on both sides.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>While the burgers are baking, prepare your buns by lightly toasting them. Once the patties are done, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving – this final rest allows them to set completely and firm up. Assemble your burgers with your favorite toppings and enjoy!</li></ol>