Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Meet our favorite Mushroom Veggie Burgers! These delightful patties combine the umami of mushrooms with hearty beans and grains for a satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend barbecues, these burgers pack a flavor punch that everyone will enjoy. With a simple preparation process, they can easily become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of mushrooms, beans, and spices creates a rich taste that rivals traditional meat burgers.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Bake or pan-sear these patties to fit your cooking style or dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch in advance and store them for quick meals throughout the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, these veggie burgers are both filling and healthy.
• Customizable Options: Easily adjust the recipe to be nut-free or gluten-free based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Mushroom Veggie Burgers, gather some essential tools. These will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large sauté pan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps finely chop ingredients quickly, ensuring even mixing for the burger patties.
• Large sauté pan: Ideal for cooking the onions and mushrooms evenly to enhance their flavors before combining.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to bake your veggie burgers, allowing them to cook evenly without sticking.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 16 ounces cremini (baby bella) mushrooms, sliced (or a blend of portobello, shiitake or cremini)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Texture

• ½ cup raw walnut halves
• 1 ¼ cups cooked pearled barley (see Notes for subs)
• 1 cup cooked pinto or black beans, rinsed and drained

For Binding

• 1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 2 Tablespoons vegan worcestershire sauce (see Notes)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• black pepper

How to Make Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Start by preheating a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Stirring occasionally, cook the onion and mushrooms until the liquid has been released from the mushrooms and mostly evaporated, about 15 minutes. Then add the garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until dry.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven

While cooking the vegetables, preheat your oven to 400° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Process Ingredients

In a food processor, pulse the walnuts until coarsely crumbled. Add the sautéed vegetable mixture along with barley, beans, nutritional yeast, worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Process until well incorporated but still chunky.

Step 4: Form Patties

Using about a scant ½ cup of mixture per patty will yield approximately eight burgers. If desired, brush each patty with vegan worcestershire sauce and sprinkle with black pepper.

Step 5: Bake the Patties

Place your formed veggie burgers on the baking sheet. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes total; flip them halfway through at about 15 minutes. They should turn firm and golden brown when done.

Step 6: Pan-Seared Option

For those who prefer pan-searing: preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of high-heat cooking oil. Cook 2 to 3 burgers at once for about 5 minutes per side or until nicely charred. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Enjoy these delicious Mushroom Veggie Burgers as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Mushroom veggie burgers are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Classic Burger Style

• Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a traditional burger experience.

Gourmet Toppings

• Top with sautéed onions, mushrooms, and a slice of vegan cheese for a rich flavor profile.

Salad Bowl

• Crumble the veggie burger over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a fresh salad option.

Wrap It Up

• Use whole grain wraps to encase the veggie burger along with spinach and hummus for a nutritious meal on-the-go.

Sliders

• Cut the patties into smaller portions and serve as sliders at parties with assorted dips.

With Dips

• Pair with avocado or cashew cream dip for an extra creamy texture that complements the flavors.

How to Perfect Mushroom Veggie Burgers

To achieve the best mushroom veggie burgers, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture while ensuring your burgers hold together perfectly.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs provide the best flavor. Avoid stale or wilted produce.

• Don’t Overprocess: When blending the mixture, leave some chunks for added texture. This helps maintain that homemade feel.

• Chill Before Cooking: Allow patties to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming patties. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.

• Experiment with Binders: If you want a firmer patty, consider adding more panko breadcrumbs or even oats to enhance structure.

Best Side Dishes for Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Pairing your mushroom veggie burgers with delicious side dishes makes for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to complement your burgers.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries add sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Bake or fry until golden brown for the best results.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the burgers.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush corn with olive oil and grill until charred. It’s sweet, smoky, and perfect for summer cookouts.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley provides protein and vibrant flavors that pair well with veggie burgers.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots in olive oil and roast until tender. They add color and nutrition to your plate.

6. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can complement the hearty burger flavors while providing comfort food vibes to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Mushroom Veggie Burgers even better!

• Using the wrong mushrooms – Select fresh cremini or a mix of mushrooms for the best flavor. Avoid overly dry or old mushrooms.
• Not cooking the mushroom mixture long enough – Ensure the mushrooms release their moisture fully before adding other ingredients. This prevents soggy patties.
• Skipping the breadcrumbs – Panko breadcrumbs help bind the mixture. Don’t skip this step, as it affects texture and firmness.
• Overprocessing the mixture – When using a food processor, pulse just until combined. Leaving some chunks enhances texture and flavor.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices based on your preference for a more flavorful burger.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow patties to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Mushroom Veggie Burgers

• Place uncooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mushroom Veggie Burgers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual burgers on high for 1-2 minutes, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mushroom Veggie Burgers.

Can I use different beans in Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Yes! You can substitute pinto beans with black beans or even chickpeas depending on your preference.

How do I make Mushroom Veggie Burgers gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use certified gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I grill Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Absolutely! After pre-cooking them, you can grill them directly on medium heat until charred and heated through.

What toppings go well with Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Try avocado slices, fresh greens, tomato slices, or your favorite vegan sauces for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

Mushroom Veggie Burgers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or toppings to suit your taste. Whether you’re having a cookout or looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner option, these burgers are sure to please everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!