Today is National Veggie Burger day! Lol… I wouldn’t say that I’m a vegetarian, but I am definitely towing the line. If you’ve been following the blog this year, you know that I have been increasing vegetables into my diet. It’s been fairly easy for me since most of what I eat has just been missing a side, lol.
I would eat chicken for dinner and that would be it, literally… chicken. Or, I’d have spaghetti with no garlic bread, salad, nothing. I knew that I was missing the vital part of my meal and I had to change it. So I started this 70/30 ratio challenge for myself. I like it. I’ve got tons of energy. My skin is clearing up. My check-ups are great. What’s not to love? Well… there is this one thing. I am a sucker for a good burger. I’ve had the veggie patties (mostly soy). They work in a pinch, but they weren’t helping fill that void of a good beef burger. I decided to see what I could come up with for myself.
I scoured the web for a basic recipe and added all my favorite things in. I decided to go with a black bean burger recipe for my base. Now, I am not a fan of beans. I know you’re thinking, “why would she choose a black bean burger recipe then?” It was the simplest and easiest recipe for a beginner like me. I love mushrooms, peppers, and onions, so they were added. I added a special ingredient (read through to the end) to bring everything together and I tell ya, they came out pretty good! My roommate was dancing while she ate, so I take that as a WIN! It took me a few bites to get accustomed to the texture (which is why I added mushrooms). *Sidenote: next time add much more! But the flavor was amazing! I recommend you eyeball this because the recipe can vary depending on what you blend in.
My Virgin Veggie Burger Recipe
Ingredients:
1 15oz can of black beans
1/2 bag of frozen 3 pepper blend
1/2 chopped onion
*optional* chopped mushrooms… lots
1 garlic clove
1 large egg
1/2c bread crumbs
1 Tbsp mayo
salt & pepper
*surprise ingredient* 2 scoops LIVfit Superfood Blend by Betterbody Foods
[I’ve used this protein powder in so many recipes. It’s a must-have, I swear. You can purchase here. You’ll thank me later.]
Directions:
Pulse black beans, garlic, and chopped onions to finely chopped in a food processor (be sure not to blend it). Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add cooked and cooled peppers and mushrooms, breadcrumbs, egg, mayo, and a generous amount of salt & pepper to taste. Mix ingredients together with a large spoon or spatula. Form into patties. Heat oil in the pan over medium heat prior to placing patties in. Cook on each side for about 5 minutes until heated through. Place on buns with your choice of toppings and enjoy!
I definitely plan on making this veggie burger again. I was so nervous in fear that it wouldn’t come out right, but it is a really simple recipe that I think any newbie can handle. It was an amazing first for me, lol. If you try it, please let me know how it turns out. I’m open to other recipes as well, so share your favorite in the comments.
