Chickpea Almond Burger Recipe

Nutritious and Delicious

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Chickpea almond burgers are a delicious and nutritious plant-based alternative to traditional beef burgers. They are packed with protein, flavor, and texture, making them a satisfying choice for both vegans and omnivores alike. Made with simple ingredients like chickpeas, ground almonds (how long do almonds last?) or almond flour (how long does almond flour last?), and a blend of herbs and spices, these burgers are easy to prepare and can be customized with a variety of tasty toppings.

To make chickpea almond burgers, a food processor is typically used to blend the chickpeas and other ingredients into a cohesive mixture. However, those without a food processor can use a potato masher to achieve a similar result. The burger mixture is then shaped into patties and placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Alternatively, the patties can be cooked on medium heat on the stovetop until they achieve a golden brown color on both sides.

These veggie burgers can be enjoyed on burger buns with a wide array of toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, or even a dollop of chipotle mayo. The uncooked patties can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep. With their combination of hearty chickpeas, almonds, and flavorful spices, chickpea almond burgers are a versatile and delicious addition to any menu.

Key Ingredients and Preparation

Selecting Quality Chickpeas

To create delicious chickpea almond burgers, it's important to start with high-quality ingredients. Chickpeas are the star of this dish and should be the primary focus. You can either use canned chickpeas (how long do canned chickpeas last?) or cook dried chickpeas. When selecting canned chickpeas, opt for a brand with no added salt or preservatives, as this can affect the taste and texture of the burgers. If using dried chickpeas, be sure to soak and cook them until tender before incorporating them into the recipe.

Essential Spices and Herbs

A key aspect of chickpea almond burgers is the rich combination of spices and herbs that adds depth and flavor to the patties. Some essential spices and herbs to include in your burger mixture are:

Garlic: 2 cloves (how long do cloves last?) of garlic, minced, brings a robust and savory flavor.
Coriander: 1 teaspoon ground coriander adds a subtle citrusy note.
Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin provides an earthy, warm touch.
Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon paprika injects smoky undertones.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper enhances the overall flavor.
Parsley: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley adds brightness and a light, herbaceous flavor.

The process for preparing the chickpea almond burgers involves a food processor. Begin by blending the chickpeas with garlic, spices, and herbs, followed by the addition of almond flour to help bind the mixture. With the food processor, pulse until the ingredients form a smooth, well-combined mixture. Transfer the chickpea mixture to a bowl and, by using a potato masher or your hands, gently form the mixture into evenly sized patties.

To cook the patties, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook your chickpea burgers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach a beautiful golden brown color. Be mindful of the cooking time; overcooking may lead to dry burgers.

These chickpea almond burgers can be enjoyed on their own, with a fresh salad, or served on burger buns with your choice of toppings. Store uncooked patties in an airtight container, separated with parchment paper, and refrigerate for a convenient and delicious weeknight meal.

Creating the Perfect Patties

Blending for Ideal Texture

Achieving the perfect texture for chickpea almond burgers starts with the blending process. Use a food processor to combine ingredients such as chickpeas, almond flour or ground almonds, and spices. This mix may also include additional items like garlic cloves, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and ground black pepper. Pulse the food processor till the mixture reaches a consistent texture. For those without a food processor, a potato masher can be used on canned chickpeas, while almonds can be finely chopped before mixing them with spices. It's important to reach a balance between smooth and chunky elements in the mix so the patties don't fall apart during cooking.

Shaping and Cooking Techniques

When it comes to forming the patties, evenly divide the chickpea mixture into desired portions. Shape each portion into a round patty using your hands or a burger mold. One option for perfecting the shape is to press the mixture onto a flat surface and use a cutter to make evenly sized, round patties.

Regardless of the veggie burger recipe you choose, preparing the patties is key for a delicious meal. To cook the patties, you can choose from three primary methods: grilling, pan-frying, or baking. Each method provides a unique texture outcome to the chickpea almond burgers.

Grilling: Place the patties on a cooking grid and cook with medium heat. This method creates a crispy and smoky exterior.
Pan-frying: Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the patties on the lined baking sheet and cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

When opting for a vegan chickpea burger, ensure the cooking method is in line with plant-based cooking preferences. For instance, use non-dairy butter or oil for cooking the patties to maintain their vegan profile.

Regardless of the cooking method, preparing perfect chickpea almond burger patties requires attention to detail and balance of texture to create a delicious veggie burger option. Remember to have fun experimenting with various spices and cooking techniques to find your ideal chickpea almond burger recipe.

Assembling the Burger

Bun and Toppings Choice

When assembling a Chickpea Almond Burger, the choice of bun and toppings can greatly enhance the overall flavor and texture. There is a wide variety of options for both the bun and the toppings. For a vegan option, be sure to choose vegan-friendly buns - many grocery stores offer a variety of options including whole wheat, oat, and gluten-free buns.

Begin with a lightly toasted bun. Common toppings for chickpea burgers include:

Lettuce: For a refreshing crunch, consider using fresh lettuce such as baby spinach or mixed greens.
Tomato: A slice of juicy tomato adds a burst of color and flavor.
Onion: Red, yellow, or caramelized onions provide a tangy contrast to the earthy chickpea patty.
Avocado or guacamole: Creamy avocado or guacamole offer a rich, velvety complement to the burger's texture.
Feta cheese: For a non-vegan option, crumbled feta cheese adds a tangy, salty touch.
Sauces: Popular sauce choices include tahini (how long does tahini last?), vegan aioli, or chipotle mayo to bring a kick to the burger.

Accompaniments

Aside from the bun and toppings, you can also serve chickpea almond burgers with various side dishes. Some popular accompaniments include:

Salad: A simple mixed greens or arugula salad with a light lemon dressing is a great pairing. It balances the hearty chickpea burger and adds a touch of freshness to the meal.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries are a nutritious side that complements the chickpea almond burger's nutty flavors.
Grilled or Steamed Vegetables: Seasonal veggies such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can be grilled or steamed and served alongside the burger for a well-rounded meal.

Follow these guidelines for a mouth-watering Chickpea Almond Burger experience that can be customized to your taste buds and dietary preferences.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing for Freshness

To store the prepared chickpea almond burgers for optimal freshness, place the uncooked patties in an airtight container with a layer of parchment paper between each patty to prevent them from sticking together. Store the container in the fridge for up to 7 days or in the freezer for longer-term storage. When you're ready to enjoy the burgers, simply remove them from the fridge or freezer and move on to the reheating process before serving.

For those who prefer a meal prep option, the chickpea mixture can be stored in the fridge until ready to shape into patties and cook. This allows you to have the mixture on hand for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Reheating for Enjoyment

Reheating chickpea almond burgers allows you to enjoy a warm, tasty, and satisfying plant-based protein-packed meal with minimal prep and cook time. To reheat the burgers, you have the following options:

Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chickpea patties on a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown.
Stovetop: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and heated through.

Whether you choose the oven or stovetop method, be sure to monitor the burgers carefully to prevent overcooking and drying out.

Once your chickpea almond burgers are heated and ready to serve, place them on your choice of burger buns and add your favorite burger toppings. Suggested toppings include lettuce, tomato, onion, and chipotle mayo, but feel free to get creative and personalize your veggie burger experience.