Looking for a satisfying and flavorful burger option for your alpha-gal diet? Look no further! These spicy black bean burgers are packed with protein, taste incredible, and are completely free of mammalian meat. Top them off with a cool and creamy avocado salsa for the perfect alpha-gal-friendly summer meal!

Let’s get cooking!

Here’s to overcoming alpha-gal because we are more than conquerors in Christ and He is our healer!

Spicy Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Salsa

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the Black Bean Burgers

  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)

For the Avocado Salsa:

  • 1 ripe avocado, cubed
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomato
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Black Bean Burgers:

  1. In a large bowl, mash the black and pinto beans together using a potato masher or fork. You can leave some chunks for texture.
  2. Cook the brown rice according to package directions and add it to the bowl with the mashed beans.
  3. Pulse the rolled oats in a food processor or blender until they resemble coarse flour. Add them to the bean mixture.
  4. Sauté the onion, bell peppers, and jalapenos in olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add them to the bowl with the bean mixture.
  5. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Gently fold in the panko breadcrumbs until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  7. Form the mixture into 4-6 patties depending on your desired thickness.
  8. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Brush the patties with a little olive oil and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until heated through and lightly browned.

Avocado Salsa:

  1. In a bowl, combine the cubed avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno, and lime juice.
  2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Assembly:

  1. Serve the black bean burgers on buns or your favorite tortilla with your favorite toppings.
  2. Top each burger generously with the avocado salsa.

Recipe Notes:

  • Make it ahead: Form the burger patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Bun alternatives: Serve the burgers on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
  • Guacamole lovers: This avocado salsa can easily be transformed into guacamole by mashing the avocado instead of cubing it.

* Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for the most accurate results.