1tspsalt-free Italian seasoning blend (like Mrs. Dash)
1tspchili powder
1teaspoonpaprika
1teaspooncumin
½teaspoonkosher salt
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
parsley, to taste
Instructions
Drain and rinse beans, then set aside.
Next saute celery, onion, and red pepper in approx 4 Tablespoons of oil with a few cranks of freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle or two of red pepper flakes.
After about 7 minutes or so, add garlic and continue to saute until the veggies are translucent and tender.
Transfer to a large bowl and add the beans, flax, oats, and quinoa.
The oat/quinoa ratio can vary depending on what you have on hand [think of these burgers as a great way to empty your fridge and pantry!]. I try to always have a bowl of cooked quinoa in my fridge so I can make super speedy batches of quinoa fried rice during the week..
Add the rest of your ingredients and mix.
Feel free to use a large spoon or potato masher to somewhat smush everything together. Once incorporated, it will start to look like edible confetti!
You can transfer this mixture to a food processor for a more uniform veggie burger or leave the beans whole for a super chunky veggie burger that will crumble easily on salads and such. I like them chunky so I've actually never pureed them in any of the batches that I've made. They whole beans give the burgers a meaty texture that makes me feel like I'm eating a traditional burger. Only they're healthier... and more flavorful... and yes, just plain awesome this way.
First form the bowl-of-yumminess into balls.
I can't quite say this without making it sound borderline inappropriate, but cup each ball in your hands and squeeze tightly, rotating as you gently but firmly press it into a disc. Think of it as stress-relief!
Form into 8 patties, cover, and refrigerate 30 minutes.
Feel free to prep these overnight for the following day! I typically make one burger right away and then leave the remainder in the fridge overnight. The following day I cook up the rest of the burgers and split the batch between the fridge and freezer. To freeze, simply cook the burgers, allow to cool a bit, and then freeze [spaced] on a plate or cookie sheet. Once they've had a chance to partially freeze you can pile them in baggies or your favorite airtight container. Viola! Fast food without the freaky ingredients.
Ready to eat? Pour a teeny bit of oil in a skillet, heat to high, and cook for a few minutes on each side until you're left with a golden crust. Wrap any burgers that you don't plan on stuffing your face with immediately in foil, saran wrap, or an air tight container and pop in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal. To re-heat, simply pop on a baking sheet in the oven for about 20 minutes at 400F.
Notes
This recipe yields 8 delicious veggie burgers; some to scarf now and a few to freeze for later!Nutrition Facts below are estimated using an online recipe nutrition calculator. Adjust as needed and enjoy!