Patty Melts with Special Sauce Recipe

Black beans: These provide a hearty base for the patties and are packed with protein.

Breadcrumbs: Used to bind the patties together and give them structure.

Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and flavor to the patties.

Garlic: Provides a rich, aromatic flavor to the patties.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami taste to the patties.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the patties to give them a nice, crispy exterior.

Vegan cheese: Melts over the patties to add a creamy, cheesy layer.

Whole grain bread: The base of the sandwich, providing a wholesome and hearty texture.

Vegan butter: Spread on the bread slices to help them grill to a golden brown.

Vegan mayo: Forms the base of the special sauce, adding creaminess.

Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the special sauce.

Mustard: Provides a bit of sharpness and depth to the special sauce.

Pickle relish: Adds a sweet and tangy crunch to the special sauce.

When forming the patties, make sure to press them firmly to ensure they hold together well during cooking. If the mixture feels too dry, add a small amount of water or additional soy sauce to achieve the right consistency. This will help the patties stay intact and cook evenly.

• black beans - Substitute with lentils: Lentils provide a similar texture and protein content, making them a great alternative for the patty base.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can help bind the ingredients together and adds a slightly nutty flavor.

• finely chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter taste compared to onions.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available, providing a similar flavor profile.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar umami flavor.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for cooking.

• vegan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a good source of B vitamins.

• whole grain bread - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread offers a tangy flavor and a chewy texture, enhancing the overall taste.

• vegan butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a spread and has a rich, buttery flavor.

• vegan mayo - Substitute with mashed avocado: Mashed avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, making it a nutritious alternative.

• ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste is thicker and less sweet, offering a more concentrated tomato flavor.

• mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a more refined and slightly spicier taste compared to regular mustard.

• pickle relish - Substitute with chopped dill pickles: Chopped dill pickles provide a similar tangy flavor and crunchy texture.

• Allow the patties to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped patties in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. If using a freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Store the patties in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they can last up to 3 months.
• For the special sauce, transfer it to a small airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• Store the special sauce in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Freezing the sauce is not recommended as it may alter the texture.
• To reheat the patties, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.
• If you prefer, you can also reheat the patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the patties on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• When ready to assemble the patty melts, follow the original recipe instructions for grilling the sandwiches. This ensures the bread remains crispy and the vegan cheese melts perfectly.
• For optimal freshness, avoid assembling the patty melts in advance. Store the components separately and assemble just before serving.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the bread from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the patties are heated through and the vegan cheese is melty.

• For a quicker method, use a skillet. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the patty melts in the pan and cover with a lid. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the patties are warmed through.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melts in the basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Air fry for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly.

• For a microwave option, place the patty melts on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep the bread from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Note that this method may not keep the bread as crispy.

• If you prefer a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melts on the toaster oven tray and heat for about 10 minutes, or until the patties are hot and the vegan cheese is melted.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the black beans, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, and soy sauce.

• Masher: This will help you mash the black beans to the desired consistency.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like black beans, breadcrumbs, and vegan mayo.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure smaller quantities like soy sauce, olive oil, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish.

• Knife: Needed for finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and mincing ingredients.

• Frying pan: Use this to cook the patties and later to grill the assembled sandwiches.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties and sandwiches while cooking.

• Plate: Place the cooked patties on a plate while you prepare the bread and special sauce.

• Butter knife: Use this to spread vegan butter on the bread slices.

• Small bowl: Mix the vegan mayo, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish to create the special sauce.

• Lid: Cover the frying pan to help melt the vegan cheese on the patties.

• Stove: Needed to heat the frying pan and cook the patties and sandwiches.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop onion and garlic ahead of time.

Use a food processor: Quickly mash black beans and mix with breadcrumbs.

Preheat the pan: Heat the olive oil while forming the patties.

Make the special sauce ahead: Mix vegan mayo, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish in advance.

Assemble sandwiches quickly: Lay out bread and vegan cheese slices before cooking.