How Do You Make Vegan Burgers from Scratch?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps to create mouthwatering vegan burgers that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

In recent years, the popularity of plant-based diets has soared, leading to a surge in demand for vegan alternatives to classic comfort foods. One such beloved dish is the burger. If you’re wondering, “How do you make vegan burgers from scratch?” you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps to create mouthwatering vegan burgers that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential ingredients for your homemade vegan burgers. These plant-based wonders are not only delicious but also environmentally friendly. To craft the perfect vegan burger, you’ll need:

1. Legumes as the Base:
   • 1 cup of cooked black beans or chickpeas.
   • These legumes provide a hearty and protein-rich foundation for your vegan burger patty.
2. Vegetables for Flavor and Texture:
   • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion.
   • 1/2 cup diced mushrooms.
   • 1/4 cup grated carrots.
   • These vegetables will add depth, moisture, and a satisfying bite to your burger.
3. Binding Agents:
   • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (ensure they are vegan-friendly).
   • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water (acts as a binder).
   • These ingredients hold your burger patty together, preventing it from falling apart.
4. Seasonings and Spices:
   • 2 cloves minced garlic.
   • 1 teaspoon paprika.
   • 1/2 teaspoon cumin.
   • Salt and pepper to taste.
   • A pinch of cayenne pepper (for some extra kick).
   • These seasonings infuse your vegan burger with irresistible flavor.
5. Oil for Cooking:
   • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (for pan-frying).
   • Choose a neutral-flavored oil like canola or grapeseed for cooking.
6. Burger Buns and Toppings:
   • Vegan burger buns.
   • Your favorite vegan condiments and toppings (lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, vegan cheese, etc.).

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to start the journey of crafting delicious vegan burgers from scratch.

Related: How Many Calories in a Vegan Burger?

Preparing the Vegan Burger Patties

Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to answer the question, “How do you make vegan burgers from scratch?” by crafting the perfect patty.

Step 1: Preparing the Legumes

Begin by thoroughly draining and rinsing your chosen legumes (black beans or chickpeas). Place them in a large mixing bowl and use a fork or potato masher to mash them until they are mostly smooth, with a few chunks remaining. This will serve as the base of your patty.

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Then, add the diced mushrooms and grated carrots, cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes until they soften and release their moisture.

Step 3: Seasoning and Binding

Add the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to the sautéed vegetables. Stir for about a minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseeds and water, stirring well. This mixture will act as a binding agent for your vegan burger patties. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Forming the Patties

Now, return your attention to the mashed legumes. Add the cooked and seasoned vegetable mixture, breadcrumbs, and the flaxseed-water mixture to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together easily. If it’s too dry, you can add a bit of water, and if it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties. Place them on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.

Related: Do Vegan Burgers Taste Like Meat?

Cooking Your Vegan Burger Patties

With your vegan burger patties formed, it’s time to move on to the cooking process.

Step 5: Pan-Frying the Patties

In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the vegan burger patties to the skillet. Cook them for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have a crisp outer layer.

Step 6: Assembling Your Vegan Burgers

While your vegan burger patties are cooking, prepare your burger buns and toppings. You can toast the buns lightly for added texture and flavor. Assemble your burgers with your preferred vegan condiments and toppings—lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, vegan cheese, and sauces of your choice.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Burgers

Creating the ideal vegan burger from scratch is an art, and here are some tips to help you master it:

1. Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to customize the seasonings and spices to suit your taste. You can make your vegan burger patties smoky, spicy, or herby by adjusting the spices accordingly.
2. Texture Matters: The texture of your burger mixture is crucial. If it’s too wet, it will be challenging to work with, so add more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, it may crumble, so a little water can help bind it together.
3. Consistency is Key: Try to make your burger patties uniform in size and thickness to ensure even cooking.
4. Don’t Rush the Cooking: Be patient while pan-frying your patties. Cooking them over medium heat allows the inside to heat through without burning the exterior.

Related: How Do They Make Vegan Burgers?

Vegan Burger Variations

If you’re looking to get creative and expand your vegan burger repertoire, here are a few exciting variations to try:

The Bean and Grain Blend

Mix cooked quinoa, brown rice, or other grains with your legumes for added texture and nutrition. The combination of beans and grains creates a more complex and satisfying patty.

Nutty Delights

Incorporate nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews into your burger mix for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. Just chop them finely and mix them with your other ingredients.

The Beetroot Twist

Grated beets can add a vibrant hue and a hint of sweetness to your vegan burger patties. They pair exceptionally well with earthy flavors like black beans.

Vegan Burger Sides and Pairings

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making delicious vegan burgers from scratch, it’s time to explore some mouthwatering sides and beverage pairings to complete your meal.

Sides to Complement Your Vegan Burgers

1. Crispy Baked Fries: No burger is complete without a side of crispy fries. Make them healthier by baking them in the oven with a sprinkle of sea salt and your favorite spices.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges: For a sweeter twist, try baking sweet potato wedges. They pair exceptionally well with the savory flavors of a vegan burger.
3. Homemade Coleslaw: A fresh and tangy coleslaw is a fantastic side dish. Make it with vegan mayo and plenty of crunchy cabbage and carrots.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of your burger.
5. Pickles and Pickled Onions: Pickles and pickled onions add a delightful crunch and tangy flavor to your burger experience.

Beverage Pairings

1. Craft Beer: If you enjoy beer, consider pairing your vegan burger with a cold craft brew. The hoppy and malty notes in some beers complement the flavors of a burger beautifully.
2. Vegan Milkshakes: For a nostalgic touch, whip up a vegan milkshake to go with your burger. You can make them with dairy-free ice cream and your choice of plant-based milk.
3. Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, whether black, green, or herbal, is a fantastic non-alcoholic option to quench your thirst while enjoying your burger.
4. Sparkling Water: A sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime can cleanse your palate and enhance the overall dining experience.

Vegan Burger Beyond the Bun

While the classic vegan burger in a bun is undeniably delicious, there are many creative ways to enjoy your homemade patties beyond the traditional burger presentation.

Vegan Burger Bowl

Create a vegan burger bowl by placing your patty on a bed of mixed greens or grains like quinoa or brown rice. Top it with avocado, salsa, and a drizzle of vegan yogurt-based dressing for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Vegan Burger Wrap

Wrap your vegan burger patty in a large, soft tortilla with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce. This portable option is perfect for lunches on the go.

Vegan Burger Slider

Make mini vegan burger sliders by using smaller buns or even lettuce wraps. They’re great for parties or when you want to try multiple flavor variations.

Vegan Burger Toppings and Sauces

Elevate your vegan burger game with a variety of toppings and sauces. Here are some tasty options to consider:

Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado slices add a luscious texture and a mild, buttery flavor to your burger. They also provide healthy fats.

Caramelized Onions

Sweet and caramelized onions can enhance the savory notes of your burger, creating a delectable contrast.

Vegan Cheese

Many vegan cheese options are available, from melty cheddar to creamy cashew-based varieties. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite.

Sriracha Mayo

Mix vegan mayo with sriracha sauce for a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the richness of your burger.

Guacamole

Trade regular ketchup for guacamole to give your burger a southwestern twist. The creamy avocado and zesty flavors will delight your taste buds.

Vegan Burgers for All Occasions

Vegan burgers from scratch are not just for casual lunches or dinners at home. They can be the star of the show at various occasions and gatherings.

BBQ Parties

Fire up the grill and cook your vegan burgers outdoors for a smoky, barbecue flavor. Serve them with grilled vegetables and corn on the cob for the ultimate summer feast.

Game Day Snacks

Mini vegan burger sliders, served with a side of vegan nachos and dip, make for the perfect game day snack to share with friends and family.

Picnic Pleasures

Pack your homemade vegan burgers, some fruit salad, and a thermos of iced tea for a delightful picnic in the park or by the beach.

Conclusion

In the world of plant-based cuisine, crafting your own vegan burgers from scratch is a delightful culinary journey filled with endless possibilities. Armed with the right ingredients, techniques, and a dash of creativity, you can create burgers that not only rival their meaty counterparts in flavor and satisfaction but also align with your ethical and environmental values.

As you embark on this adventure into the world of vegan cooking, remember that the key to the perfect vegan burger lies in experimentation. Don’t hesitate to personalize your patties with an array of seasonings, toppings, and sauces to suit your unique taste preferences. Whether you opt for the classic burger in a bun or prefer alternative presentations like bowls, wraps, or sliders, you have the power to tailor your vegan burger experience.

More than just a meal, crafting homemade vegan burgers is a sustainable and conscious choice that benefits both your well-being and the planet. With each bite, you contribute to a more compassionate and environmentally friendly food system.

So, embrace the kitchen as your canvas, and let your imagination run wild as you explore the diverse world of vegan burgers. May your culinary creations be a source of joy and nourishment for yourself and those you share them with. Happy cooking, and savor the delightful journey of your plant-based burger adventure!