Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Black Bean Walnut Burgers with Saucy Sweet Onions are a perfect combination of texture and taste. The walnuts add a nice crunch and depth to the black beans, while the saucy sweet onions elevate the burger to a new level of deliciousness. This recipe is not only vegan and healthy, but it’s also full of protein and fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a hearty and satisfying meal without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Saucy Sweet Onions:

2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly mashed but still slightly chunky.
Add the chopped walnuts, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and ground flaxseed. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
While the patties are cooking, prepare the sweet onions. Heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Sauté for about 10-12 minutes until the onions become soft and caramelized.
Add balsamic vinegar and maple syrup to the onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the burgers by placing a patty on a bun and topping it with the saucy sweet onions.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 burgers
Total Time: 30-40 minutes (prep and cook time)

Variations

Add cheese: For a non-vegan option, add a slice of your favorite cheese (such as cheddar or Swiss) on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns for a completely gluten-free burger.
Additional toppings: You can top the burgers with avocado slices, lettuce, tomato, or any of your favorite burger toppings for extra flavor and freshness.
Spicy version: Add a bit of chili powder or hot sauce to the patty mixture for some extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The caramelized onions can also be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the patties on a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side or until heated through. The sweet onions can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the Black Bean Walnut Burgers?

Yes, these burgers freeze very well! Simply freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I use other types of beans instead of black beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute black beans with other beans such as kidney beans, chickpeas, or pinto beans. Just make sure to adjust the consistency as needed.

3. What can I use instead of walnuts in this recipe?

If you’re allergic to walnuts or prefer a different flavor, you can use pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds. These will provide a similar texture and crunch.

4. How do I make the sweet onions more savory instead of sweet?

To adjust the sweetness of the onions, reduce the amount of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Instead, you can add a bit of soy sauce or a touch of miso paste for a savory version.

5. Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This can help the flavors meld together even more.

6. What kind of buns are best for this burger?

Whole wheat buns, brioche buns, or gluten-free buns are great choices. Pick a bun that suits your dietary preferences and enhances the burger’s flavor.

7. Can I make the saucy sweet onions ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sweet onions a day or two ahead and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them before serving.

8. How can I add more protein to this recipe?

You can add extra protein by incorporating cooked quinoa or tempeh into the patty mixture. Both options will increase the protein content while maintaining the texture.

9. Can I serve these burgers without a bun?

Yes, you can serve the patties in a lettuce wrap or over a bed of greens for a low-carb option.

10. Can I grill these burgers instead of pan-frying them?

Yes, you can grill these burgers! Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until they are crispy and heated through.

Conclusion

These Black Bean Walnut Burgers with Saucy Sweet Onions offer a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying plant-based meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple cooking techniques, this recipe makes a delicious alternative to traditional beef burgers. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or just looking for a nutritious and tasty option, this burger is sure to impress. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love!