As the warmer weather hits and the grill is fired up the craving for a burger may hit.

Even the biggest carnivore will not deny the satisfying flavor of these caramelized portobello mushroom burgers. Blending mushrooms with meat or using them as a substitute is not only healthier for you but the planet as well. The patties are made up primarily of black beans and hearty Portobello mushrooms. The addition of the caramelized onions really elevates the flavor. Everyone in my family were taken by surprise by how much they loved them. Even the little dish couldn’t get enough of these patties! 

This recipe was photographed and written for my column “Try This” in Live Naturally Magazine: https://livenaturallymagazine.com/

Caramelized Onion and Portobello Mushroom Burgers

ingredients

• 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 c portobello mushrooms (gills and stem removed, roughly chop caps)

• 1/2 c caramelized onions (see note below)

• 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 Tbsp water

• 1/2 lemon, juiced

• 1 tsp chia seeds

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp harissa

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 c panko breadcrumbs

• 3/4 c parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 tsp olive oil

instructions

1. In the bowl of a food processor add the black beans, mushrooms, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, water, lemon juice, chia seeds, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and harissa. Pulse until the mixture is a thick paste, chunks are okay.

2. In a large bowl beat 2 eggs and add the mushroom and bean mixture to the eggs. Then add the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Mix well.

3. In a large frying pan add 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.

4. Once the oil starts to simmer (about a minute or two), using dampened hands (the mixture will stick to you if you don’t), scoop a 1/2 cup of mixture into the palm of your hand and gently shape into a burger all the while pressing together. The mixture should hold a burger shape. If it doesn’t add just a tbsp more of bread crumbs.

5. Place in the oil and cook for 3-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and a crust has formed on each side.