Mushroom Veggie Burger Recipe

Prepare flax egg

In a small bowl mix ground flaxseed and 3 tablespoons water. Stir and let sit 5–10 minutes until gelled.

Sauté vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and a pinch of salt; cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated carrot; cook 1–2 minutes more. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most moisture has evaporated and mushrooms are nicely browned. Stir in soy sauce and cook 30 seconds more. Remove from heat and let cool 5 minutes.

Combine base ingredients

In a large bowl combine the cooked brown rice, mashed black beans, sautéed mushroom mixture, pulsed oats, flax egg, smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper and salt. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or your hands until mixture holds together when pressed. If the mixture seems too wet, add up to 2 tablespoons more oats; if too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons water or a splash of soy sauce.

Form patties and rest

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form each into a 3/4-inch-thick patty (about 4 inches wide). Place patties on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate 20–30 minutes to firm up (this helps them hold while cooking).

Pan-fry patties

Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook 4–5 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. If using cheese slices, place slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover the pan briefly to melt. Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest 2 minutes.

Toast buns: Lightly toast the buns in a dry skillet or toaster for 1–2 minutes until golden.

Spread condiments: Spread your chosen condiment (ketchup, mustard or sauce) on both bun halves.

Assemble burgers: On the bottom bun place a lettuce leaf, then the mushroom patty, a slice of tomato, a few rings of red onion and sliced or mashed avocado. Top with optional chopped parsley or cilantro and hot sauce if desired. Cover with the top bun.

Serve: Serve immediately with side of fries, salad or your preferred side.

Mix chopped parsley or cilantro into the patty mixture before forming for a fresher herb flavor, or sprinkle on the finished burger. Add hot sauce to the condiment layer or drizzle over the patty for spice.