Black Rice Veggie Burger Recipe for a Healthy Twist

Welcome to a delicious twist on the classic veggie burger! Our Black Rice Veggie Burger recipe is a wholesome, nutrient-packed delight that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty plant-based meal.

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, not only adds a unique nutty flavor but also brings a beautiful deep purple hue to your burgers. Combined with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a touch of spices, these burgers are bursting with texture and taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe offers an excellent balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Plus, they’re easy to make and versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Get ready to impress your family and friends at your next cookout or weeknight dinner with these vibrant, flavorful veggie burgers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Black Rice Veggie Burger. Firstly, the use of black rice adds a beautiful color and a distinct earthy flavor that’s different from your regular veggie patties.

It’s also gluten-free and packed with antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters.

Secondly, these burgers have a fantastic texture that’s both hearty and satisfying. The combination of black rice with finely chopped vegetables and legumes gives each bite a lovely chew, while the spices provide a wonderful depth of flavor.

Lastly, these burgers are incredibly versatile. You can bake, pan-fry, or grill them, and they pair perfectly with any bun or salad.

They’re a crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a casual BBQ.

Ingredients

• 1 cup black rice (uncooked)
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 cup cooked black beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium carrot, finely grated
• 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water (flax egg)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, see Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
• Whole grain burger buns or lettuce wraps, for serving

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large mixing bowl
• Food processor or blender (optional, for blending beans)
• Grater (for carrot)
• Frying pan or skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Baking sheet (optional, if baking)

Instructions

1. Cook the black rice: Rinse the black rice well under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 1 ½ cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with 5 tablespoons of water. Set aside to thicken for 10-15 minutes.
3. Mix the veggies and beans: In a large bowl, add the cooked black rice, black beans (you can mash them slightly with a fork or pulse a few times in a food processor for better binding), grated carrot, chopped red bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and fresh cilantro.
4. Add the dry ingredients and spices: Stir in the rolled oats, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
5. Combine with flax egg: Pour the thickened flax egg into the mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when formed into a patty. If too wet, add a bit more oats; if too dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.
6. Form the patties: Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty, about ¾ inch thick.
7. Cook the patties: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and firm. Alternatively, you can bake the patties on a lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
8. Serve: Once cooked, place the patties on whole grain buns or lettuce wraps. Add your favorite toppings such as avocado, tomato slices, lettuce, pickles, or vegan mayo.

Tips & Variations

Tip: If you want firmer burgers, pulse the black beans in a food processor before mixing to help bind the patties better. Also, chilling the formed patties in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking can help them hold their shape.

Variations:

• Swap black beans for chickpeas or lentils for a different flavor profile.
• Add finely chopped mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and moisture.
• Mix in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory flavor.
• Use different spices such as curry powder or smoked chipotle for a smoky twist.
• Try serving your burgers with a Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe for Easy Dips for an indulgent touch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Black Rice Veggie Burger is perfect served hot off the skillet or from the oven. For a classic experience, serve on a toasted whole grain bun with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and sliced red onion.

Try topping with creamy avocado slices or a dollop of vegan mayo or mustard for extra richness. For a lighter option, serve the patties wrapped in large lettuce leaves with crunchy pickles and fresh herbs.

Pair your burger with sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or even a Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal on the side for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

This Black Rice Veggie Burger recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s easy enough to prepare on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for weekend gatherings or BBQs.

The combination of black rice and fresh veggies creates a unique texture and taste that stands out from ordinary veggie patties.

By incorporating wholesome ingredients and versatile spices, you can customize this burger to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to explore more plant-based delights like those found in our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or check out other nutritious choices in our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals collection.

Enjoy the journey of creating vibrant, delicious, and nourishing meals with this delightful black rice burger recipe!

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