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Lady Maria

Cilantro Lime Spicy Black Bean Burgers

These Cilantro Lime Spicy Black Bean Burgers are a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian option, perfect for satisfying both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Packed with zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and a spicy kick, they offer a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that will elevate your burger game.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2025 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Southwestern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup lime juice freshly squeezed is best!
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced depending on your spice preference
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Burger buns of your choice
  • Toppings: avocado, salsa, sour cream or Greek yogurt

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Skillet
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Grill

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Black Beans: In a large bowl, mash one can of the black beans with a fork or potato masher. You want a chunky, slightly smooth consistency. This helps bind the burgers together.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. They should be fragrant and slightly translucent. This step brings out their natural sweetness.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables, the remaining whole black beans (from the second can), cooked brown rice (or quinoa), cilantro, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the bowl with the mashed black beans.
  4. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be fairly uniform in color and texture.
  5. Add Breadcrumbs: Gradually add the breadcrumbs, mixing until the mixture is firm enough to form patties. You might need a little more or less depending on the moisture content of your beans. The goal is to create a mixture that holds its shape.
  6. Season to Taste: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Don't be afraid to be generous with the seasoning; it really enhances the flavor!
  7. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make sure they are tightly packed to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
  8. Chill the Patties: Place the patties on a plate lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape even better. This is a crucial step, don't skip it!
  9. Cook the Burgers: You have a few options here!
  10. Assemble and Serve: Place the cooked patties on your favorite burger buns and top with your desired toppings. I highly recommend avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt!

Notes

Chilling the patties before cooking is essential to prevent them from falling apart.