Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Quinoa Burgers


Quinoa + Garlicky White Bean Dip = Extraordinary Veggie Burger Awesomeness...times ten.

I kind of went over the top with that one, didn't I?

These little patties just blew my mind though. I loved the surprising addition of quinoa, which kicked up the protein content supremely. And using
Garlicky White Bean Dip as a binding agent? Pure brilliance, I tell you.

Tonight, we devoured these patties burger-style: loaded up with all the fixins' on a whole wheat sandwich thin (don't forget the avocado slices). And to top off the vegan-licious-ness of this dish, we used leftover Garlicky White Bean Dip as a spread for the buns. Tomorrow, these babies will transform into a crumbly mix-in for my lunch salad.

And yes, I'm one of those people whose office perpetually smells like garlic. I practically wear the stuff as perfume.

These burgers are dairy-free and vegan-happy, but if you're craving some cheesy goodness, a slice of white sharp cheddar melted on top would suit just fine.

(Psssst...If you're looking for more meat-less burger ideas, check out my
Greek White Bean Burgers or Vegan Veggie Burgers).

Quinoa Vegan Burgers
(adapted from this recipe from the Savvy Vegetarian; makes about 6 patties)

These burgers are "soft" in nature, meaning they don't form a firm patty as you may be used to with other veggie burgers. Feel free to up the "filler" content (e.g., whole wheat flour perhaps) to make a firmer patty.

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa (we used red quinoa)
  • 1/2 - 3/4 cup Garlicky White Bean and Pine Nut Spread (or about 1/2 cup of your favorite hummus)
  • 1 TBSP tomato paste
  • 2 TBSP ground flaxseed
  • 1 TBSP soy sauce
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. dried basil
  • 1 tsp. ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp. cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
  • Optional: a dash of whole wheat flour to bind/firm the mixture
  • Burger fixins' (tomato, spinach leaves, avocado slices, pickle, and extra white bean dip)
Directions:
1) Super Easy! Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mash/mix until thoroughly combined and you are able to form patties. Refrigerate for about 1 hour (if you have time. I didn't, so I skipped this step)

2) Form into 6 patties. Heat a dash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for about 3 - 4 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned. Serve with your burger fixins' or over a spinach salad.

14 comments:

  1. Thanks Kyle... this is gluten free as well. Just don't add the flour. I can't wait to try these.

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  2. Fabulous!!!! and what a great idea to use your leftover dip to enhance and bind the patty! woot!

    xoXOxo
    Jenn @ Peas & Crayons

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  3. I have never tried quinoa before. These look great!

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  4. Love it! I'm always searching for new veggie burger recipes (because I don't like the frozen variety) I love how you used your white bean spread to bind the quinoa. I'm craving a big burger now! I hope you are having a lovely week. Thank you for always sharing such great eats with me.

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  5. Mmm, I love all that's going on with these! You're constantly expanding my list of veggie burgers to make. Also, I'm pretty sure garlic makes the world go 'round. Bring on the vampires! :)

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  6. I'm always looking for veggie burger recipes!! THANK YOU!

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  7. Ooh I love quinoa but I've never made it into something else! I can't wait to try this.. we are huge garlic fans in our house as well :) It's not just delicious its good for you too! ha

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  8. Amazing! I've always wanted to try quinoa instead of brown rice in veggie burgers-i'm going to try this asap! Thanks!

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  9. That looks/sounds SO delish! I love that it's all garlickly!

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  10. So totally making these for lunch!! Except I have a cilantro pesto that I think I might pair it with instead of hummus...we will see!

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  11. This looks like a superbly healthy meal I could sneak past my boyfriend. And who doesn't love quinoa in everything!
    I finally found a huge bag for cheap at Costco! Amen.

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  12. love love it
    since we don't eat meat we are always looking for new meatless burgers recipe and this quinoa version sounds delicious. thanks for sharing.

    May this new year bring many opportunities to your way,
    to explore every joy of life
    &
    may your resolutions for the days ahead stay firm,
    turning all your dreams into reality
    and all your efforts into great achievements.
    Happy New Year to you & your loved ones.

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  13. After eating so much meat during the holidays, this meatless burgers are perfect!

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