Black Bean Chickpea Burgers

I have to admit it can be a challenge cooking for another person. Sometimes, when it's just me, all it takes is a grain, vegetables, and a little protein and I'm ready to call it dinner. But when you have a husband that loves to eat and if he had the choice - would definitely eat a burger any day of the week, it is necessary to plan some meals that you can keep on hand in the fridge.

I was determined to get John to cut down on the meat, but couldn't just hand him a bowl of rice and beans and call it a day. So I had to get creative. I experimented with different blends for veggie burgers and wanted to find a gluten free recipe so that I could also enjoy sitting down and eating the same thing with John. And thus, black bean chickpea burgers were discovered!

These are a GREAT and HEALTHY alternative to a store bought veggie patty, which are usually loaded with added sodium. Instead - the flavor is in your hands. These burgers are so accepting of spices - you can literally throw in almost anything that you are in the mood for. There are times I like to throw in extra chili powder or cayenne pepper to give it a bite even.

I am always testing out vegetarian options on John because I know if I can get him to enjoy it, most meat eaters will also enjoy. So enjoy a hearty, healthy, and delicious veggie burger this week!

Ingredients

  • 15.5 oz can black beans

  • 15.5 oz can chickpeas

  • 1.5 c brown rice (cooked)

  • 1 egg

  • 1/2 onion, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic

  • salt and pepper

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

  2. Drain the two cans of beans through a strainer and rinse with water.

  3. Place black beans, chickpeas, 1 cup of brown rice, egg, onion, and garlic in a food processor and blend. Take time stopping to scrape down the sides.

  4. Scrape the batter into a large bowl and stir in the 1/2 c brown rice to add texture.

  5. Spoon six patties onto a non-stick baking pan.

  6. Smooth into flat patties.

  7. Bake patties for 20 minutes. Flip. Bake for another 10 minutes.

  8. Remove from oven and allow to cool.

  9. Top with whatever your desired toppings!

*You can never go wrong with the classic lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese!