Looking for a delicious, hearty, and healthy vegetarian burger that satisfies your cravings without compromising on flavor? Our vegetarian chickpea burger recipe is the perfect answer!
These burgers are packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the star ingredient—chickpeas. They deliver a satisfying texture and a rich blend of spices that will please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for a nutritious lunch option, these burgers are incredibly versatile and easy to make from scratch. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free if you choose your buns wisely!
This recipe combines wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and hearty chickpeas to create patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up these flavorful burgers with common pantry staples.
For an added bonus, these burgers freeze well, making meal prep a breeze. Let’s dive into why this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavorful and nutritious: Chickpeas are a fantastic plant-based protein source, and the blend of spices adds a delightful kick. Every bite bursts with savory goodness.
Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal prep and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have. Plus, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them for later.
Customizable: Enjoy it as is or mix in extras like roasted peppers, spinach, or your favorite cheese. You can even swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free options.
Perfect for any occasion: These burgers are great for quick lunches, family dinners, or even impressive party appetizers. Serve with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseeds mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 4 burger buns (whole wheat, gluten-free, or your choice)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, vegan mayo, mustard, pickles
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor or potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Baking sheet (optional if baking instead of frying)
- Plate lined with paper towels (for draining)
Instructions
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseeds with water and set aside for 10 minutes to thicken.
- Mash the chickpeas: Transfer the drained chickpeas to a food processor and pulse a few times until coarsely mashed. You can also mash with a fork or potato masher if you prefer some texture.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, fresh parsley, breadcrumbs, flax egg, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix well: Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything thoroughly. The mixture should hold together; if too wet, add more breadcrumbs, if too dry, add a splash of water or olive oil.
- Form patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick.
- 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 until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Drain excess oil: Place cooked patties on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
- Assemble the burgers: Toast your burger buns if desired. Place the chickpea patty on the bottom half and add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan mayo, or mustard. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with a side of sweet potato fries, salad, or your preferred sides.
Tips & Variations
For extra moisture and flavor, add a tablespoon of tahini or your favorite nut butter to the chickpea mixture.
Try using different herbs like cilantro, basil, or dill to change the flavor profile.
If you want a spicier burger, add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeño to the mix.
For gluten-free patties, substitute breadcrumbs with ground oats or crushed rice crackers.
Leftover patties freeze well. Place parchment paper between patties and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 burger patty without bun) |
---|---|
Calories | 210 kcal |
Protein | 9 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Saturated Fat | 0.8 g |
Sodium | 320 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Our vegetarian chickpea burgers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
For a Mediterranean twist, top your burger with cucumber slices, tomato, and a dollop of tzatziki or hummus. You can also enjoy these patties on a bed of quinoa or wrapped in a whole wheat pita with crunchy slaw for a light lunch option.
If you want to explore more wholesome vegetarian recipes, check out our Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals or try a sweet treat like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
For a perfect homemade bun to complement these burgers, don’t miss our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
Conclusion
Our vegetarian chickpea burger recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these burgers are perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet without sacrificing taste.
The combination of chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delicious texture and flavor that will make this recipe a go-to in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, these patties will impress and satisfy every time.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices or add your favorite toppings to make this recipe uniquely yours. And remember, cooking vegetarian doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or fun!
For more creative and tasty vegetarian recipes, keep exploring our collection and enjoy the journey of delicious, healthy eating.
📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Chickpea Burger
Description: A delicious and hearty chickpea burger packed with flavor and protein. Perfect for a healthy vegetarian meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Mash chickpeas in a bowl until mostly smooth.
- Add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, carrot, parsley, tahini, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Form mixture into 4 patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties 4-5 minutes per side until golden and heated through.
- Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 34 g
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