Navigating the world of plant-based cuisine can sometimes feel like a guessing game, especially when you’re seeking out vegan options. Have you encountered frustrating surprises in frozen black bean burgers or vegetarian patties at restaurants? Perhaps there were sneaky additions of eggs or cheese-like substitutes that dampened your experience despite their supposed suitability for vegans.
Discover the Delicious Black Bean, Corn, and Walnut Burger [Vegan]
After realizing my veggie burgers from restaurants weren’t always as reliable or appealing as anticipated—even though they were technically vegetarian—I decided to take matters into my own hands. I now prefer making burgers at home where I control the ingredients, and this recipe delivers far superior flavor without any hidden compromises.
Ingredients for Black Bean, Corn, and Walnut Burger [Vegan]
- 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup walnuts (soaked in water for about 15 minutes before draining)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 small onion, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes (optional – for extra onion flavor)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional – provides depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Liquid Aminos or tamari
- 1 tablespoon vegan grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup vital wheat gluten (adds structure and fluffiness)
- Approximately 1/2 cup store-bought edamame hummus, plus more for serving if desired
- Red onion slices, fresh greens such as lettuce or spinach leaves (for serving)
- 4 burger buns or rolls
Note: This recipe is naturally vegan and uses whole-food ingredients.
How to Make Black Bean, Corn, and Walnut Burgers
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use an oven-safe dish.
- Sauté the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic in a little water or vegetable broth until softened. Stir in the cumin, coriander powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Pulse the walnuts in a food processor until they are coarsely ground – just enough for texture, not paste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed black beans (mash partially or fully, leaving some whole bits optional) with the cooked onion mixture and all other ingredients except hummus, buns, and toppings. Use your hands to thoroughly mix everything.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form each into a patty shape – slightly larger than desired as they will shrink during baking.
- Place patties on the prepared baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish covered with parchment paper (prevents sticking). Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm enough to slice if desired, though serving whole is also delicious.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the patties on a baking sheet (for easier flipping) or uncovered in their dish. They will soften further initially.
- After initial baking/browning, carefully flip each patty. Return to oven or transfer to another baking sheet.
- Bake uncovered (or in the dish without parchment) for an additional 20 minutes at 375°F, until they have browned nicely and are cooked through. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness and your oven.
- Serve immediately with your favorite burger additions. Edamame hummus is perfect for dipping; sliced red onions and fresh greens add crunch and color.
TIP: If you’re concerned about texture while baking (they can be very soft), place the patties on a baking rack set over the pan/bowl to allow steam to escape, helping them firm up faster after flipping. Alternatively, bake them uncovered initially and flip halfway through for browning.
TIP: If they seem too soft after the first bake, you can switch to baking at a higher temperature for 25 minutes, then flip and bake off-heat until heated through and lightly browned (about 10-15 more minutes).
TIP: These burgers continue to firm up as they cool, so if you’re making them ahead or need extra cooking time, bake a bit longer uncovered at the end before serving.
Estimated Nutrition Information (per Burger serving)
Total Calories: 506 | Total Carbs: 59 g | Total Fat: 21 g | Total Protein: 24 g | Estimated Sodium varies based on salt added
Disclaimer: Calculation is an estimate for the main patty ingredients (black beans, walnuts, corn, onion, vital wheat gluten) and excludes optional toppings like red onion or greens.
The nutritional values provided are approximate. They can vary significantly depending on portion sizes, specific ingredient choices (like different types of hummus), and added condiments/toppings. This information should not be considered a substitute for professional nutrition advice.
