Mexicana Veggie Burgers Recipe

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

Corn kernels: Adds sweetness and texture to the burgers.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture together, giving the patties structure.

Chili powder: Brings a spicy kick to the flavor profile.

Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy taste that complements the other spices.

Garlic powder: Infuses the patties with a subtle garlic flavor.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the mixture.

Olive oil: Used for frying the patties to a golden brown and crispy perfection.

When forming the patties, make sure to press them firmly to ensure they hold together well during cooking. If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, you can add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to help bind the ingredients. Conversely, if the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs until you reach the desired consistency.

• cooked and mashed black beans - Substitute with cooked and mashed chickpeas: Chickpeas provide a similar texture and protein content, making them a great alternative.

• cooked corn kernels - Substitute with cooked peas: Peas offer a similar sweetness and texture, maintaining the balance of flavors in the burger.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can help bind the ingredients together while keeping the recipe gluten-free.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a milder heat and a smoky flavor, which can complement the other spices well.

• cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander offers a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor, adding a different but pleasant twist to the spice profile.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor and aromatic quality to the burgers.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can help in binding the ingredients together.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil has a high smoke point and can add a subtle sweetness to the frying process.

• Allow the patties to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation and sogginess when stored.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container, separating each patty with a piece of parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the patties within 3-4 days. For longer storage, proceed to freezing.
• To freeze, lay the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling with the date for reference. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a frying pan with a bit of olive oil over medium heat until warmed through and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Alternatively, reheat directly from frozen by baking in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated and crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the veggie burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated thoroughly.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the veggie burgers in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Microwave Method: Place the veggie burgers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the veggie burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and have a crispy exterior.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly brush the veggie burgers with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have nice grill marks.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the mashed black beans, corn kernels, breadcrumbs, and spices.

• Frying pan: This is essential for cooking the patties until they are golden brown and crispy.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties in the frying pan to ensure even cooking.

• Measuring cups: These will help you measure out the black beans, corn kernels, and breadcrumbs accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.

• Masher: Useful for mashing the black beans to the right consistency.

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

• Plate: Place the cooked patties on this before serving.

• Buns: These are for serving the patties with your favorite toppings.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Cook and mash the black beans and corn kernels ahead of time to save prep time.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the black beans, corn kernels, and breadcrumbs in a food processor for a smoother mixture.

Preheat the pan: Heat the olive oil in the frying pan while forming the patties to streamline the cooking process.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra patties for a quick meal later.

Use pre-made breadcrumbs: Save time by using store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making your own.