Prepare to revolutionize your burger game with a plant-based masterpiece that will make even meat lovers do a double-take! Our Black Bean Burger with Seared Apple BBQ Sauce isn't just another veggie patty – it's a culinary adventure that combines smoky, hearty black beans with a sweet and tangy apple-infused BBQ sauce that will send your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Get ready to impress your friends, family, and most importantly, your own palate with this game-changing recipe that proves vegetarian meals can be just as exciting and delicious as any traditional burger.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup apple BBQ sauce
- 1 apple, sliced
- 4 burger buns
Instructions
- Drain and rinse black beans thoroughly, then transfer to a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the beans into a coarse texture, leaving some beans partially whole for better burger consistency.
- Add breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mashed black beans. Mix ingredients thoroughly using a spatula or clean hands until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Press the edges firmly to ensure the patties hold together during cooking.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Cook the black bean patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are heated through completely.
- While burgers are cooking, prepare the seared apple BBQ sauce. Slice the apple into thin wedges and sauté in a separate pan until lightly caramelized.
- Add the apple BBQ sauce to the pan with caramelized apple slices, stirring to combine and warm the sauce.
- Toast the burger buns lightly to add extra texture and warmth.
- Place each cooked black bean patty on a toasted bun and generously top with the seared apple BBQ sauce.
- Serve immediately while the patties are hot and the sauce is warm, optionally with additional side garnishes like lettuce or pickles.
Tips
- Moisture is Key: Be careful not to make your patties too wet. If the mixture seems too loose, add a few extra breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the patties in batches if necessary to ensure they get a nice crispy exterior.
- Patty Preservation: If you're preparing the patties in advance, place them on parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Sauce Sophistication: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or a pinch of smoked paprika to your apple BBQ sauce.
- Texture Trick: For a crispier exterior, you can lightly dust the patties with additional breadcrumbs just before cooking.
- Serving Suggestion: Experiment with toppings like caramelized onions, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate your burger experience. Pro tip: These burgers freeze beautifully! Make a double batch and freeze uncooked patties between sheets of parchment paper for an easy future meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 355kcal
Carbohydrates: 70g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
