Peruvian Quinoa Veggie Burger
These quinoa veggie burgers get their structure from cooked quinoa and their heat from ají amarillo chile, a staple of Peruvian cooking, balanced with fresh cilantro and pantry binders. They hold together well on the stovetop and are ready to serve in about 30 minutes, making them a practical and protein-rich meatless dinner option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed and drained
- 2 cups water for boiling quinoa
- 1 large carrot grated
- ½ cup red bell pepper finely chopped
- ¼ cup onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro finely chopped
- 1 large egg or egg substitute for vegans
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs whole grain recommended
- 1 tablespoon aji amarillo paste optional for spice
- ½ teaspoon salt to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked, to taste
Cooking and Serving
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
- 4 medium burger buns preferably whole wheat
- 1 cup lettuce fresh leaves
- 1 pc ripe avocado sliced
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural coating. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until all water is absorbed. Let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grated carrot, red bell pepper, onion, cilantro, egg, breadcrumbs, ají amarillo paste, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. The mixture should hold together when squeezed.
- Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Optionally, toast the burger buns slightly. Assemble the burgers by placing a quinoa patty on the bottom bun, layer with lettuce, avocado slices, and top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
For an added crunch, use a cast iron pan to sear the patties, ensuring a beautiful golden crust.
Nutrition
Calories: 406kcalCarbohydrates: 59gProtein: 13gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 47mgSodium: 595mgPotassium: 478mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 3777IUVitamin C: 27mgCalcium: 119mgIron: 4mg
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