📖 Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Set aside to cool slightly. Don't skip this step, or you'll have crunchy quinoa bits later!
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the onion, mushrooms, and any other veggies you plan to use. If using a food processor, pulse the vegetables until they are finely chopped but not mushy. Alternatively, dice them very finely by hand. A little texture is good.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and other vegetables, and cook until they are tender and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Let the vegetables cool slightly.
4. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, cooked black beans (rinsed and drained), breadcrumbs, flaxseed meal (if using), and any additional seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cumin. Mix everything together thoroughly with a wooden spoon or your hands, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Adjust the consistency: If the mixture seems too wet, add more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a consistency that can be easily formed into patties. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth until it comes together. The key is finding that sweet spot where the patties hold their shape without being too dense.
6. Form the patties: Using your hands, form the mixture into patties about ½ inch thick. You can make them any size you prefer, but keep in mind that larger patties may take longer to cook. Place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
7. Chill the patties (optional): For best results, place the baking sheet with the patties in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the patties to firm up and helps them hold their shape during cooking. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but chilling is recommended.
8. Cook the patties: There are several ways to cook these quinoa veggie burgers. Choose your preferred method:
9. Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the patties for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. This method is great for a hands-off approach.
10. Skillet Cooking: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and heated through. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
11. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned and heated through. Make sure to grease the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
12. Serve and enjoy: Serve the quinoa veggie burgers on your favorite buns with your choice of toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, sprouts, and your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or a creamy vegan mayo. These burgers are also delicious served on top of a salad or grain bowl. Enjoy your healthy and delicious homemade burgers!