4.19.2011

Crispy Quinoa Burgers with Flax Seed


Originally I got the idea for a quinoa burger when I was browsing foodgawker.com, my favorite way to kill time. I decided to step it up a notch and add some flax seed and beans, making this a perfect dish for a vegetarian in need of some serious protein. I also added cream cheese, which makes for some real melty goodness. These crispy and golden patties are full of flavor, and deliciously addictive. 

Editor of the blog...stealing my seat
Crispy Quinoa Burgers with Flax Seed
2 1/4 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup of kidney or black beans
3/4 cup shredded cheese of choice
1 tablespoon cream cheese
2 eggs
2 green onions
2 tablespoons white onion, chopped
1/2 cup carrot, shredded
2 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon chili paste or hot sauce
2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon flax seed
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Makes 8 Patties


First you need to cook your quinoa. Don't be afraid! It is very similar to rice. First rinse and drain one cup of quinoa. Heat two cups of water in a medium saucepan until boiling then add rinsed quinoa. Reduce to a simmer, cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Let rest for 5 minutes, then remove lid and cool. 

Next grate your cheese, chop your onions, mince your garlic,  grate you carrot, and slice your green onions. Set aside. 



Using you beans of choice (I chose dark red kidney) and a fork, mash into a chunky paste. This really helps glue your burgers together.


In a large bowl add chopped vegetables, beans, eggs, cream cheese, shredded cheese, flour, sugar, flax seed, hot sauce, and all spices. Stir to combine.


Next add your cooled quinoa. Must be cooled or the cheese will melt now, instead of in the pan. Stir mixture until completely uniform. 


In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Using hand, form 1/2 cup portions of quinoa mixture into patties and place into hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. 

14 comments:

  1. This sounds yummy I can't wait to try it. What would you suggest serving it with, as in I want to make it the main dish at dinner?

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    Replies
    1. salad is always good. you could do grilled chicken tender strips or kabobs as a side

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  2. I love having this with oven roasted vegetables. They go great together and combined are a very low calorie meal!

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  3. Yup! The cream cheese just adds a little glue and creaminess, but I've made them sans cream cheese, and they are just as yummy!

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  4. Just as a friendly tip, your body isn't able to properly digest and reap the full benefits of the flax from flax seeds. If you use ground flax/flax meal (samething) your body is able to absorb all the goodness! :)

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  5. Made it vegan style and love it! Thanks so much!

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  6. How would you make this vegan? I know I could use vegan cheese but what would I substitute for the egg?

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  7. Chia seeds and water let it sit for like 5-10 minutes and it can be used like glue like eggs do.

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  8. I end up baking these in the oven (I just keep an eye on them until they brown) and have also had success freezing them. I pull one out of the freezer like a homemade "boca burger" but these are WAY better. My favorite way to eat them is on a homemade bun topped with fresh tomato and avocado!

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  9. I think baking might be better. I just made them and they were delicious! Just hard to turn over without coming apart some in the pan. I also cooked my quinoa in chicken stock to add some extra flavor.

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    Replies
    1. I also meant to tell you wonderful pictures!

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    2. Thank you! It definitely takes some tinkering with the amounts of ingredients to get the right "stick together" consistency. Sometimes they stick together great and sometimes...not so much. The oven is a great alternative!

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