Chilis Black Bean Burger Recipe

Looking for a fantastic black bean burger that’ll make you forget all about meat?

I’ve tested and tweaked Chili Black Bean Burger recipe to get just the right blend of spices and texture.

Cooking these on a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil really brings out the flavors.

Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the mix; it works wonders.

How to Make Chilis Black Bean Burger Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cans Black Beans (15 oz. each)
• 1 small Onion (diced)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
• 1/2 cup Bread Crumbs
• 1 Egg
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Drain and rinse the black beans.

Use paper towels to pat them dry, removing as much moisture as possible.

Step 2:

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until golden.

Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3:

In a food processor, combine the beans, cooked onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili powder.

Pulse until roughly mixed.

Step 4:

Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.

Add bread crumbs, egg, and Worcestershire sauce.

Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 5:

Form the mixture into patties using your hands.

Aim for around 4-6 patties depending on your preferred size.

Step 6:

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.

Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Dry Your Beans Thoroughly

Remove excess liquid from the beans to ensure your patties hold together well.

Using paper towels helps a lot.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh garlic and onion make a big difference in flavor compared to their powdered counterparts.

Trust me, it’s worth it!

Don’t Overmix

Pulse the food processor just enough to combine ingredients.

Overmixing can make the patties too mushy.

Customize the Flavor

Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick.

Experiment to find your favorite combination.

Make Ahead Option

You can make the patties in advance and freeze them.

Just thaw them before cooking when you’re ready to eat.

Have fun in the kitchen, and enjoy your homemade black bean burgers!

What to Serve with Chilis Black Bean Burger

Classic French Fries

You can’t go wrong with crispy french fries.

They’re perfect for soaking up those delicious burger juices.

I recommend using russet potatoes for that extra crunch.

Sweet Potato Fries

For a twist, try serving sweet potato fries.

They have a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavor of the black bean burger.

You can season them with a bit of paprika for an extra kick!

Creamy Coleslaw

Coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the savory burger.

It’s easy to whip up with some shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing.

The crisp texture will complement the softness of the black bean patty perfectly.

Corn Salad

Corn salad is a vibrant choice!

Mix corn kernels, diced bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes together.

A squeeze of lime and some cilantro will tie the flavors beautifully with your black bean burger.

Avocado Salad

Avocado salad is a nutritious and non-traditional option.

Combine diced avocados with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a dash of olive oil.

This salad’s creamy, tangy mix is sure to be a hit.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables can add a touch of smokiness to your meal.

Zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are excellent choices.

A light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the veggies will elevate the flavors.

Pickle Spears

Lastly, don’t forget to add some pickle spears.

Their tanginess will cut through the richness of the black bean burger.

It’s a simple yet effective side that adds a crunch.

Variations and Substitutions

Flavor Twists

You can add a unique twist to your black bean burger by incorporating different spices.

Consider adding cumin, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.

To balance out the flavors, you might want to mix in a bit of lime zest.

Protein Options

If you’re looking for a protein boost, you can substitute some of the black beans with lentils or chickpeas.

This can also add a different texture to your burger.

These legumes work wonderfully in maintaining the burger’s consistency.

Veggie Additions

Don’t limit yourself to just beans and onions in your burger!

Grated carrots, zucchini, or even chopped mushrooms can add more depth and nutrition.

Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before adding them to the mix.

Binders

If you’re out of breadcrumbs, try using oats, crushed crackers, or even cooked quinoa.

These alternatives will help keep your burgers firm and hearty.

Eggs can be replaced with flax seeds mixed with water for a vegan option.

Cooking Methods

Feel like mixing it up? Instead of cooking on a skillet, try baking your burgers in the oven.

Arrange the patties on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling is another fantastic option!

How to Store Leftover Chili’s Black Bean Burger

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Once your black bean burgers have cooled, place them in an airtight container.

You can line the container with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

These burgers can last in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

For longer storage, consider freezing your leftover burgers.

Individually wrap each patty in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Label the container with the date, and they can keep for up to three months.

Tips for Storing Toppings

Store any leftover toppings separately to maintain freshness.

Keep items like lettuce, tomato, and avocado in sealed containers in the refrigerator.

This way, you can easily rebuild your burger without soggy or wilted toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forgetting to Dry the Black Beans

One common mistake is not drying the black beans adequately before mashing them.

Moist beans will make your patties fall apart during cooking.

To avoid this, drain and rinse your beans, then bake them at 360°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes.

Overprocessing the Ingredients

When using a food processor, it’s easy to blend everything into a paste, which affects the texture of the burger.

Pulse the onion, garlic, and beans just enough to mix them roughly.

Leaving some chunks provides a hearty texture that makes the burger more enjoyable.

Cooking at Too High a Temperature

Cooking the patties at too high a temperature can cause them to burn on the outside while staying mushy inside.

Use medium heat and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden.

This ensures that they cook evenly and have a nice, crispy exterior.