I remember the first time I tried a black bean burger. It was at a quirky little vegan café downtown. Skeptical but intrigued, I took a bite. The texture was surprisingly meaty, the flavor rich and satisfying. From that moment, I was hooked. And then, the lightbulb went off: Why not experiment with a blend of black beans and lentils? The result? A flavor explosion, a hearty patty that’s as good for you as it is delicious.
Black bean lentil burgers are a fantastic option for those who care about health, diet, and the environment. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, they’re a satisfying meal that leaves you feeling energized and nourished. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them in countless ways, from classic burger buns to lettuce wraps. Let’s dive in and create a burger that’s not just a meal, but a culinary adventure.
Red Lentil Burger with Garlic Aioli
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1/2 yellow onion diced
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp black vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
- 1/2 cup vegetable stock
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup garbanzo bean flour
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 cup vegan mayo
- 1/2 lemon Zest and juice
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- A pinch of kosher salt
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Buns (toasted)
- Thinly sliced tomatoes
- Chiffonade of romaine lettuce
Instructions
Prepare Lentils
- Measure 1 cup of red lentils, rinse, and drain.
- Cook lentils in boiling water for 6 minutes, drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
Saute Onions
- Dice 1/2 yellow onion (about 1 cup).
- Heat a pan over medium heat, add onions with 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
Add Spices
- Add 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp poultry seasoning, 1/4 tsp allspice, 1 tsp oregano, and 1 tsp cumin.
- Cook for 3 minutes over low heat.
Incorporate Wet Ingredients
- Add 1 tbsp tomato paste and 1 tbsp black vinegar (or balsamic vinegar), cook for 2 minutes.
- Combine 1/2 cup vegetable stock with 1/4 cup soy sauce, add to the spice mixture.
Cook Lentils
- Add the par-cooked lentils and cook for 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently to reduce liquid.
- Allow lentils to cool in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Form Patties
- Mix in 1 cup panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup garbanzo bean flour.
- Let cool for 10 minutes, then form into patties using a 2.5 oz ice cream scoop, pressing down to form 5 oz patties.
- Refrigerate patties for 15 minutes to set.
Cook Patties
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil.
- Cook patties for 5 minutes per side, seasoning with kosher salt, then finish in a 425°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
Prepare Aioli
- Mix 1 cup vegan mayo, zest and juice of 1/2 lemon, 2-3 grated garlic cloves, a pinch of kosher salt, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
Assemble Burger
- Toast the buns, slather with aioli, add the patty, thinly sliced tomatoes, and chiffonade of romaine lettuce. Top with more aioli.
Video
Notes
- Ensure lentils are cooked but still retain some texture to avoid mushy patties.
- Cooling lentils before forming patties helps them hold shape better.
- Adjust seasoning in the aioli to taste, adding more garlic or lemon if desired.
- Cook patties thoroughly in the oven to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Be generous with the aioli to enhance the flavor and texture of the burger.
Suggestions on how to serve Black Bean Lentil Burger
The beauty of a black bean lentil burger lies in its versatility. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Classic Burger: Serve on a whole-grain bun with your favorite toppings like vegan cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and a dollop of vegan mayo.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, use large lettuce leaves as wraps. Stuff them with your burger patty, avocado slices, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
- Bowls: Create a hearty bowl by placing the burger patty on a bed of brown rice or quinoa, and topping with your favorite veggies and a flavorful sauce.
- Salads: Add a protein boost to your salad by crumbling a black bean lentil burger on top.
Suggestions on how to preserve Black Bean Lentil Burger
To enjoy your homemade black bean lentil burgers at their best, proper storage is key. Here are some tips:
- Immediate Consumption: For the freshest flavor, enjoy your burgers immediately after cooking.
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To enjoy your burgers later, freeze individual patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
FAQ
1: Can I substitute other beans for black beans?
Absolutely! Kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas can be used as substitutes.
2: Are these burgers suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, these burgers are naturally gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free. However, always check the labels of any additional ingredients you use.
3: How can I make these burgers more flavorful?
Experiment with different seasonings and herbs. Cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and fresh cilantro can add depth of flavor.
4: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer.
5: What can I serve with these burgers?
These burgers pair well with a variety of sides, including sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Remember, cooking is a journey of discovery. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create your perfect black bean lentil burger. Enjoy!
