Best Vegan Burger Recipe Barley for Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Looking for a delicious, wholesome, and satisfying vegan burger that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients? Look no further!

This best vegan burger recipe using barley combines the hearty texture of barley with fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices to create patties that are flavorful, filling, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Barley is a fantastic base ingredient for burgers because it’s rich in fiber, protein, and minerals, giving the patties a wonderful chewiness that mimics the texture of traditional burgers. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to customize with whatever veggies and spices you have on hand.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with this hearty vegan burger that tastes far better than store-bought alternatives!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan barley burger recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, the combination of barley and black beans brings a perfect balance of protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized.

The veggies add freshness and color, while the spices give the patties a mouthwatering aroma and flavor.

Not only is this recipe plant-based and nutritious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your preferences by swapping out veggies or adding your favorite herbs.

Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy burgers all week long.

Lastly, it’s easy to prepare with simple equipment and straightforward steps, making it beginner-friendly but still impressive enough for experienced home cooks.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
  • 1 ½ cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 cup cooked black beans, mashed
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms (optional)
  • ½ cup rolled oats, ground into oat flour or use store-bought oat flour
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or any neutral oil, for frying

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with lid (for cooking barley)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Food processor or blender (optional, for oats)
  • Grater (for carrot)
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Spatula or turner
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet or plate (for shaping patties)

Instructions

  1. Cook the barley: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed barley and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes until the barley is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with water. Set aside to thicken for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Cook the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and mushrooms (if using) for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, mashed black beans, grated carrot, sautéed vegetables, and flax egg.
  5. Add dry ingredients and season: Stir in the oat flour, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together but is not too wet. If it’s too wet, add more oat flour; if too dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.
  6. Form patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 even patties, about ¾ inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
  7. Chill the patties: Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up, which makes cooking easier.
  8. Cook the burgers: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Place the cooked patties on vegan buns with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Tips & Variations

“The key to a perfect vegan barley burger is balancing moisture and binding ingredients. Don’t skip the flax egg and oats—they hold the patty together beautifully!”

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the barley with cooked quinoa and ensure oats are certified gluten-free.
  • Add finely chopped bell peppers or corn for extra sweetness and color.
  • Try different spices like chili powder or curry powder to give your burgers a unique twist.
  • Make it smoky by adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt.
  • If you prefer baking, place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • For a crunchier texture, coat patties lightly in breadcrumbs before frying.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 Patty)
Calories 180 kcal
Protein 7 g
Carbohydrates 30 g
Fiber 6 g
Fat 4 g
Sodium 300 mg

Serving Suggestions

These barley vegan burgers are a fantastic base for any meal. Serve them on toasted whole-grain buns with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, red onion rings, and your favorite vegan mayo or ketchup.

For extra flavor, add avocado slices or a smoky BBQ sauce.

Pair your burger with a side of sweet potato fries, a fresh kale salad, or try something different like our Kansas City Coleslaw Recipe for a tangy crunch. For a light and refreshing contrast, a cucumber and mint salad is also perfect.

Looking for more vegan inspiration? Check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or try making your own buns with this Magic Dough Recipe to elevate your burger game.

Conclusion

This vegan barley burger recipe is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based dining without sacrificing flavor or texture. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, it’s an approachable recipe suitable for all cooking levels.

Barley’s hearty texture combined with black beans and fresh vegetables creates patties that are satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these burgers are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and sides, and don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices and additions to make the recipe uniquely yours.

For more tasty recipes and kitchen inspiration, explore our site and try out other favorites like our Lump Of Coal Recipe or the sweet and fragrant Marzipan Challah Recipe. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Barley Burger

Description: A hearty and nutritious barley-based vegan burger packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cooked black beans
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. Cook barley in vegetable broth until tender, about 25 minutes, then drain any excess liquid.
  2. In a large bowl, mash black beans lightly with a fork.
  3. Add cooked barley, grated carrot, onion, garlic, oats, flaxseed, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix until combined and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
  5. Form mixture into 4 equal patties.
  6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  7. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and firm.
  8. Serve on vegan buns with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 14g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 48g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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