My Unexpected Vegan Journey

So, let me tell you, this is the last thing in the world I would think I'd be writing about: a vegan burger recipe. I mean, vegan food, it's like rabbit food, you know? Bland, boring, and anything but burgers. Then came this crazy backpacking trip I took last summer through Redwood National Park. My friend Maya is one of those committed vegans, and honestly, the trail meals she made for us were amazing! Absolutely delicious! That trip totally changed my perspective, and I realized that vegan food could be exciting and totally satisfying, especially after a long day of hiking.

So here I am, sharing my new love for plant-based burgers. This recipe is not just a meal but a delicious adventure, reminding us that even the most straightforward things in life can get amazingly awesome. Are you ready to join me?

Ingredients: Get Your Burger Arsenal Ready

Before we begin to cook, let's prepare all our ingredients. Make sure you've got everything you need or you'll be running to the store midway—which is never fun, trust me. Here's what you need:

• For the Burgers:
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion (I like red onion for that extra zing!)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you love garlic as much as I do)
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Serving:
• Burger buns-most whole wheat are my favorite
  • Lettuce
  • Tomato
  • Onion
  • Your favorite vegan cheese slices-I am a sucker for Violife's cheddar
  • Vegan mayo or ketchup (optional)

Tip: You can totally do your own thing with the spices! Feel free to experiment. If you like spicy, go ahead, add more chili powder!

Instructions: Light Up, Get This Burger Party Started!

Alright, chefs, make magic now! By following each step as carefully given, well, before you blink, your delicious vegan burgers shall be ready to go. Yeah, really, it's more simple than you may think!.

1. Mash the Beans: Mash the black beans using a fork in a large bowl. Smoothen as many as possible but not completely. Some chunks here and there won't hurt, and honestly add to the burger's flavor, I believe. Think about the fun textural experience it offers.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add cooked rice, walnuts, onion, garlic, oats, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed beans. Mix everything really well until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into four or six patties, depending on the size you prefer. I usually make bigger patties; they are extra satisfying.
4. Cook the Burgers: These can be cooked in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they're heated through and nicely browned. You can also bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes. If you're short on time, you can use your air fryer.
5. Assemble and Serve: When your patties are ready, toast your buns if desired. Now it's time to build! Place the patties on buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, vegan cheese, and any condiment you fancy, and voilà!