Here’s a recipe for Red Bean Burgers with Spicy Vegetables and Homemade Sauce—a hearty and flavorful vegetarian burger that’s perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the red bean burgers:
- 1 can (15 oz) red beans (kidney beans), drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 egg (or flax egg for a vegan option: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For the spicy vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the homemade sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt to taste
For serving:
- Burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the red bean burgers:
- In a large bowl, mash the red beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still a bit chunky.
- Add the cooked quinoa or breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, parsley or cilantro, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), egg (or flax egg), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on your preferred size.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
2. Prepare the spicy vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or prepare a grill for medium-high heat.
- Toss the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or grill for about 10-12 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
3. Make the homemade sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, honey or maple syrup (if using), and salt. Mix well.
- Adjust the heat level and seasoning to your preference.
4. Assemble the burgers:
- Toast the burger buns if desired.
- Spread a generous amount of the homemade sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place a red bean burger patty on top, followed by a layer of the roasted spicy vegetables.
- Add lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, and avocado (if using) as desired.
- Top with the other half of the bun.
Tips:
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or additional quinoa in the burger mixture.
- You can customize the toppings and sauce to suit your taste—feel free to add pickles, jalapeños, or cheese if desired.
These Red Bean Burgers with Spicy Vegetables and Homemade Sauce are flavorful, satisfying, and a great way to enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal. Enjoy!