Delicious Homemade Vegan Quinoa & Black Bean Burgers with Smoky Strawberry BBQ Sauce
These Vegan Quinoa & Black Bean Burgers with Strawberry BBQ Sauce will completely transform the way you think about veggie burgers. Forget dry, crumbly patties of the past – this plant-based meal is sensationally flavorful, loaded with sweet and smoky notes that will have everyone reaching for seconds! Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, or simply curious about a healthier burger option, these homemade patties are guaranteed to impress.
Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
If you’ve ever found yourself skeptical about veggie burgers, prepare to have your mind (and taste buds) changed forever. These aren’t just “good for a veggie burger” – these are the kind of burgers you’ll confidently bring to any barbecue, knowing they’ll be a hit. Yes, we’re talking about a truly outstanding homemade black bean and quinoa burger that rivals (and often surpasses) its meaty counterparts.
I completely understand any hesitation you might have. For years, I searched for that elusive perfect veggie burger, one that offered satisfying texture, robust flavor, and didn’t fall apart on the first bite. Many fell short. But then, these incredible black bean and quinoa burgers came into my life, and trust me, they are a game-changer. You can skip years of skepticism and dive straight into the deliciousness!
This recipe is not only completely vegan but also remarkably flavorful, meaning you won’t even miss the cheese. The secret? Our unique Roasted Strawberry BBQ Sauce provides an unexpected burst of sweetness and tang, perfectly complementing the savory patties. You can also opt for my Homemade BBQ Sauce for a more classic, smoky experience. One bite, and you’ll understand why these plant-based burgers are truly ah-mazing!
So, enough talk! Let’s get to cooking these fantastic vegan quinoa and black bean burgers and discover your new favorite plant-based meal. Get ready for a delicious journey!
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Vegan Quinoa & Black Bean Burgers
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these homemade veggie burgers. They are tender, juicy, and boast a satisfying smoky flavor that rivals traditional meat burgers. Plus, you can load them up with all your favorite toppings without compromise. But that’s just the beginning of their charm:
- Packed with Plant-Based Protein: Black beans are an incredible source of plant-based protein and fiber, making these burgers incredibly satisfying and nutritious. Paired with quinoa, a complete protein, these patties offer a substantial and healthy meal that will keep you full and energized. There’s truly no need to opt for meat when you have a can of these versatile beans and a pantry full of wholesome ingredients at your disposal.
- A Super Quick & Easy Dinner: Believe it or not, these delectable burgers come together in just about 30 minutes! With only 20 minutes for prep and a mere 10 minutes for cooking, they’re the ideal solution for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade and healthy without spending hours in the kitchen. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious – what more could you ask for?
- No Fancy Equipment Required: You don’t need a gourmet kitchen or specialized tools to whip up these fantastic vegan burgers. A simple pan and a stovetop are all you need to achieve perfectly crispy, cooked-through patties. If it’s summertime, or you simply prefer a grilled flavor, these burgers are also wonderfully grillable. Choose the cooking method that best suits your preference and enjoy the simplicity!
- Customizable for Everyone: One of the best aspects of these quinoa and black bean burgers is how adaptable they are. Whether you like a bit more spice, different vegetables, or a specific type of bun, this recipe provides a fantastic base to experiment with. They’re naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
- Affordable & Wholesome: Made with pantry staples like black beans and quinoa, this recipe is not only healthy but also incredibly budget-friendly. Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank, and these wholesome plant-based burgers are proof!
Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Plant-Based Burgers
Crafting these delectable vegan quinoa and black bean burgers requires a few simple yet powerful ingredients. Beyond the obvious black beans and quinoa, here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to gather:
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the patties. Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor, but any neutral cooking oil like canola oil, avocado oil, or even sunflower oil will work just as well.
- Onion: Diced finely. Onions provide a foundational savory flavor that’s essential for any good burger. Yellow or white onions are perfect here, adding a sweet aromatic base.
- Bell Pepper: Specifically a red bell pepper, diced. Red bell peppers contribute a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing both the flavor and visual appeal of the burgers. Feel free to use other colors if that’s what you have on hand.
- Seasoning Essentials:
- Garlic (minced): For that indispensable aromatic depth.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just a touch adds a gentle warmth and slight kick, elevating the overall flavor profile without being overtly spicy. Adjust to your heat preference.
- Ground Black Pepper: A classic seasoning that enhances all the other flavors.
- Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning the vegetables and the burger mixture, bringing all the flavors into balance.
- Black Beans: One 15-ounce can, rinsed thoroughly and drained well. Canned black beans are a convenient hero for this recipe. Rinsing removes excess sodium and starch, ensuring a cleaner flavor. You can also cook black beans from scratch if you prefer, just make sure they are well-cooked and drained.
- Quinoa: You’ll need 1 cup of cooked quinoa. Quinoa adds excellent texture, helps bind the burgers, and boosts the protein content. Ensure your quinoa is fully cooked and cooled before mixing. If you don’t have quinoa, cooked brown rice can be a decent substitute for texture.
- Roasted Strawberry Barbecue Sauce: This is where the magic happens! You can follow this fantastic recipe for a homemade roasted strawberry BBQ sauce, or try my newest homemade BBQ sauce for a smoky classic. The sauce is key to the unique sweet and smoky flavor.
- Gluten-Free Flour: I personally love using Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1:1 Baking Flour, which works perfectly to bind the patties and give them a great texture. However, regular all-purpose flour can also be used if you’re not concerned about gluten content. This helps ensure your vegan black bean burgers hold their shape beautifully.
How to Craft Your Perfect Quinoa & Black Bean Burgers
As I mentioned, these incredible vegan black bean and quinoa burgers come together surprisingly quickly – you’ll have them formed and ready to plate in under 30 minutes! The process involves a few straightforward steps: first, gently sautéing your aromatics, then blending the main ingredients into a cohesive burger mixture, followed by shaping and cooking them to golden, crispy perfection. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how to bring these homemade veggie burgers to life:
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies for Flavor Foundation
Begin by heating the first tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add your diced onions, red bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. They should be cooked down but still have a little bite. Lightly season them with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste as they cook, enhancing their natural sweetness. Once tender, remove the pan from the heat and allow the sautéed vegetables to cool slightly before proceeding.
Step 2: Blend the Hearty Burger Mixture
Next, it’s time to bring all the burger components together. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, the cooked and cooled quinoa, your sautéed vegetables (which should be slightly cooled by now), red pepper flakes, gluten-free flour (or regular flour), ground black pepper, and sea salt. Pulse the mixture in short bursts until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The goal is to achieve a cohesive, slightly chunky mixture where the black beans are nicely mashed but not completely pureed. You want enough texture to give the burger character, but it should be firm enough to hold its shape.
Step 3: Form Your Perfect Burger Patties
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Now, it’s time to shape your black bean and quinoa burger mixture into patties. For consistent sizing, I highly recommend using a ½ cup measuring cup to portion out the mixture. Pack the mixture firmly into the measuring cup, then gently release it onto your palm. With slightly oiled hands (a key tip for success!), carefully form the mixture into neat, disc-shaped patties. This recipe typically yields 4 generously sized, thick burgers. If you have time, consider refrigerating the formed patties for about 10 minutes before cooking; this helps them firm up and hold their shape even better.
Step 4: Cook Your Vegan Burgers to Crispy Perfection
Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the formed burger patties to the pan. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. As the burgers begin to sizzle, reduce the heat to medium. Cook the burgers for approximately 6 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown, crispy exterior and a thoroughly cooked-through interior. The crispy crust is essential for that satisfying burger experience. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and get ready to assemble your masterpiece!
Essential Tips for Making the Best Vegan Veggie Burgers
To ensure your homemade quinoa and black bean burgers are nothing short of spectacular every single time, here are some invaluable tips gathered from experience. These small details can make a big difference in the texture, stability, and overall deliciousness of your plant-based patties:
- Refrigerate the Burger Patties for Better Binding: This is a crucial step if you want perfectly stable burgers. After forming your patties, place them on the parchment-lined cookie sheet in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes (or even longer, up to an hour). Chilling helps the ingredients firm up and bind together more securely, significantly reducing the chances of the burgers crumbling during cooking. Semi-solid patties cook beautifully, developing a crispy exterior while sealing in the internal moisture and flavors.
- Lightly Oil Your Hands for Easy Shaping: The burger mixture can be a little sticky, especially with the mashed black beans. To prevent it from adhering to your hands and to achieve a smooth, perfectly round patty shape, lightly spray or coat your hands with a small amount of olive oil before forming each burger. This simple trick makes the process much cleaner and more efficient.
- Thoroughly Rinse and Drain Your Black Beans: Before adding your canned black beans to the food processor, make sure to rinse them under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step is important for two reasons: it removes any excess sodium from the canning liquid, and it washes away starches that can make the mixture gummy. After rinsing, drain them very well to get rid of any excess moisture. Too much moisture can make your patties soggy and prone to falling apart.
- Use a Measuring Cup for Consistent Patties: For uniformly sized burgers that cook evenly, use a ½ cup measuring cup to portion out your mixture. Pack the mixture firmly into the cup, then invert it onto your hand or the parchment paper. This method gives you a consistent amount of mix for each burger, leading to predictable cooking times and beautifully shaped patties.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the burgers, resist the urge to cram too many into the skillet at once. Overcrowding can lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steamed rather than seared burgers. Cook in batches, allowing each patty enough space to develop a golden-brown, crispy crust.
- Consider Baking for a Firmer Texture: While pan-frying delivers a great crust, if you prefer a very firm patty, you can also bake these burgers. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm. This is also a great option if you’re making a large batch.
Creative Topping Ideas for Your Vegan Quinoa & Black Bean Burgers
Just like a classic ice cream sundae bar, building your perfect burger is half the fun! These hearty vegan quinoa and black bean burgers are a fantastic canvas for a wide array of toppings. Let your creativity run wild and assemble a burger that perfectly suits your taste:
- The Essential Fresh Toppings: Start with the classics that elevate any burger. Think crisp red onion slices, tangy pickles, fresh tomato slices, crunchy lettuce, and creamy avocado. For an extra zing, add some quick pickled onions or a spoonful of sweet relish. Don’t forget a slice of your favorite vegan cheese for that gooey melt!
- The Star: Strawberry BBQ Sauce (or Classic BBQ): Our unique Roasted Strawberry BBQ Sauce is highly recommended for its sweet and smoky profile that perfectly complements these patties. However, if you prefer a more traditional flavor, a generous slather of your favorite smoky barbecue sauce or my Homemade BBQ Sauce will also be absolutely delicious.
- Other Must-Have Condiments: What’s a burger without its essential partners? Ketchup, mustard (Dijon or yellow!), and perhaps a dollop of vegan mayo or a spicy sriracha mayo can truly complete the experience. For an adventurous twist, consider a creamy vegan ranch or a vibrant chimichurri.
- Elevated & Gourmet Options: Beyond the basics, consider caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of fresh guacamole, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an added layer of flavor and sophistication.
Delectable Serving Suggestions for Your Veggie Burgers
Now that you’ve got your incredibly delicious black bean and quinoa burgers ready, what will you serve alongside them? The options are as varied as they are tasty! Whether you’re craving something classic, light, or a little fancy, there’s a perfect pairing for every occasion:
- On Your Favorite Burger Buns: A classic choice! Use a standard vegan burger bun from your local grocery store. For a gluten-free option, there are many excellent gluten-free buns available. If you’re looking for a lighter, carb-conscious alternative, a fresh lettuce wrap (using large romaine or butter lettuce leaves) makes a fantastic and refreshing “bun.”
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Just like peanut butter and jelly, burgers and fries are a match made in culinary heaven! These homemade sweet potato fries offer a naturally sweet and savory contrast to the burgers and are a healthier alternative to regular potato fries.
- A Fresh & Vibrant Salad: Keep it light and fresh with a simple side salad. My kale salad with sesame tahini dressing is an absolute favorite, effortlessly combining healthy greens with a rich, flavorful dressing. It’s incredibly easy to make and provides a wonderful balance to the hearty burger.
- Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote): If you’re firing up the grill for your burgers, then grilled corn on the cob is an absolute must-have side! Buttery, charred, and bursting with flavor, especially when prepared as Grilled Mexican Street Corn, it’s the quintessential accompaniment to any barbecue-style meal.
- Crispy Oven-Baked Potato Wedges: For a heartier side that’s less frying and more baking, seasoned potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to prepare and pair wonderfully with the robust flavors of the burger.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crisp, and creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing counterpoint to the warm burger, adding a delightful textural contrast. Look for vegan coleslaw recipes or simply use a vegan mayonnaise for your dressing.
Storing and Reheating Your Vegan Quinoa & Black Bean Burgers
These versatile veggie burgers are ideal for meal prep, making healthy eating convenient throughout the week. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy their deliciousness whenever a craving strikes. Here’s how to store and reheat your extras:
For cooked burgers, allow them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, place parchment paper between individual patties if stacking to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to reheat, a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat will bring them back to life, creating a wonderfully crispy exterior again. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on a preheated grill for that smoky flavor, or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Freeze These Vegan Black Bean Burgers?
Absolutely! These homemade black bean burgers are excellent for freezing, allowing you to prepare a batch and have quick, healthy meals ready whenever you need them. They can be frozen both cooked or uncooked.
To freeze **uncooked patties**: Place the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a single-layer freezer bag, with parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. They will keep well in the freezer for up to one month.
To freeze **cooked patties**: Allow the cooked burgers to cool completely. Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to one month.
When you want to enjoy a frozen burger, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating. This ensures even cooking and the best texture. Once thawed, follow the cooking or reheating instructions above. This makes meal planning a breeze!
Ready to make these incredible plant-based burgers your next kitchen triumph? These vegan quinoa and black bean burgers are more than just a meal; they’re an experience in flavor, health, and convenience. Enjoy creating and savoring every delicious bite!
P.S. Here are some of the items I used to make this recipe if you’d like to use them too:
| WHAT YOU’LL NEED // SHOP MY FAVORITE INGREDIENTS & PREP PRODUCTS |
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Easy Grillable Veggie Burgers
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Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ medium onion, ½ cup, diced
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 15 ounce can of black beans, rinsed and drained (498g)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa, or cooked rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Roasted Strawberry Barbecue Sauce, or Regular Homemade BBQ Sauce
- 1/2 cup all purpose gluten free flour mix, I use Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1:1 Baking Flour or regular flour
Instructions
- Heat the first tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium high heat until hot, and sauté the onions, red bell peppers, garlic until cooked down, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper slightly to taste. Allow the vegetables to cool a bit.
- In a food processor, add the black beans, cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, red pepper flakes, gluten free flour, ground black pepper and sea salt. Pulse until combined – you want it all completely incorporated, until it’s one cohesive mixture and the black beans are nice and mashed in.
- On a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, form the mixture into burgers (ensure to spray your hands with oil first – they are sticky!). I like to use my ½ cup measurement to pack them in, then form them in my hands into shape. They can make 4 large burgers this way. Optional: refrigerate for about 10 minutes before cooking.
- In a pan over medium high heat, heat about 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the burgers to it, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Once the burgers sizzle, lower to a medium heat and cook about 6 minutes on each side, until crispy and cooked through.
- Serve as you desire, in a burger form or in a lettuce wrap. We added burger buns, onions, tomato and lettuce and barbecue sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
- Refrigerate the burger meat. If you refrigerate the patties for about 10 minutes before cooking, they’ll be sure to stay together. Semi-solid patties cook best because as the exterior gets crispy, the juices get sealed on the inside.
- Spray your hands with oil. Oil up your hands to minimize the burger mix sticking to your hands. This also helps you get that perfect patty shape.
- Rinse and drain those beans. Rinsing them removes extra salt from the can, and ensures that you’re working with fresh beans. Drain them to get rid of excess moisture before starting.
- Use a measuring cup when forming the patties. This will ensure that all of your burgers are relatively the same size, and it gets you a circular shape to start with.
- I love using this Homemade BBQ Sauce on these burgers.
HOW TO STORE
These veggie burgers are perfect for meal prep. They can be stored in single layer freezer bags in a freezer-safe container, lined parchment paper.
When you want to reheat them, just put a splash of olive oil in a pan, and heat the burger until crispy. You can also heat up the grill if you’ve got time! They can be frozen for up to a month.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.