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The Recipe · No.651 · Veggie Burger

Veggie Burger, and where to source it

Veggie Burger — 5best2buy.com 5BEST2BUY.COM Veggie Burger American 5best2buy.com

You're after a patty that browns and holds together, and both come down to getting the moisture out before it hits the pan. Cook the mushrooms down until they stop weeping water and almost squeak in the pan. Then chill the mix so it firms up enough to shape without crumbling.

By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026

Prep25 min
Cook15 min
Makes4 burgers
CuisineAmerican
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 4 burgers
Black beans or pinto beans
Well-cooked beans mash into a binder; drain and dry them so the patty isn't wet.
1 & 1/2 cups cooked
Rolled oats
Ground oats soak up moisture and hold the patty together without egg.
3/4 cup
Mushrooms
Finely chopped and cooked dry, they add the savory backbone and meaty texture.
8 oz
Burger buns
A sturdy toasted bun keeps the patty from turning the bread to mush.
4 buns
Smoked paprika and cumin
Ground spices give the patty savory depth so it doesn't taste like plain beans.
2 tsp total
Olive oil
For sauteing the mushrooms and searing the patties.
3 tbsp
Onion and garlic
Diced small and cooked soft, they season the mix from the inside.
1 onion, 2 cloves
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●● Squeaky clean
About as virtuous as dinner gets.
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
  1. Dry the mushroomsSaute chopped mushrooms, onion, and garlic in oil over medium-high until the moisture cooks off and the pan goes dry, about 8 minutes.
  2. Mix and chillMash the beans coarsely, fold in ground oats, cooked mushrooms, and spices, then chill 20 minutes so the mix firms up.
  3. SearShape into four patties and sear in oil over medium heat 4 to 5 minutes per side until a dark crust forms; toast the buns in the same pan.
The Toolkit

Skillet · Food processor · Mixing bowls · Fish spatula · Chef knife

Straight Answers
Can you make Veggie Burger in an air fryer? — Sometimes

Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.

Can you freeze Veggie Burger? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Veggie Burger ahead of time? — Yes

Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Is Veggie Burger gluten-free? — Yes

Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.

Is Veggie Burger vegan? — Yes

Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.

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