BBQ Burgers (Tara McDermott)
These inventive vegetarian burgers offer a delightful twist on the classic BBQ favorite. By blending finely chopped walnuts with cooked rice, you create a hearty, textured patty that holds together beautifully while delivering a rich, earthy flavor. The addition of vegetarian bacon bits and a touch of barbecue sauce infuses every bite with a smoky, savory depth that mimics traditional meaty flavors. Crispy on the outside from pan-frying and tender within, these patties are perfect for casual weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. They pair wonderfully with classic condiments like pickles and extra barbecue sauce, making them a satisfying comfort food option for both vegetarians and omnivores alike.
Description
These inventive vegetarian burgers offer a delightful twist on the classic BBQ favorite. By blending finely chopped walnuts with cooked rice, you create a hearty, textured patty that holds together beautifully while delivering a rich, earthy flavor. The addition of vegetarian bacon bits and a touch of barbecue sauce infuses every bite with a smoky, savory depth that mimics traditional meaty flavors. Crispy on the outside from pan-frying and tender within, these patties are perfect for casual weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. They pair wonderfully with classic condiments like pickles and extra barbecue sauce, making them a satisfying comfort food option for both vegetarians and omnivores alike.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 3/4 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 tsp oil
- 1 Tbsp vegetarian "bacon" bits
- 1/2 Tbsp barbecue sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- dash garlic powder
- flour
Directions
- 1 Process walnuts in a food processor until finely chopped, then transfer to a mixing bowl.
- 2
Process the cooked rice in the food processor until broken down but not pureed, and add to the walnuts.- 3
In a small skillet, sauté the chopped onion in oil over medium heat until tender and translucent.- 4
Add the cooked onion to the walnut and rice mixture along with the vegetarian bacon bits, barbecue sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.- 5
Gradually add flour to the mixture, mixing well, until the consistency is firm enough to form patties.- 6
Refrigerate the patties for 1 hour to help them set and hold their shape.- 7
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for several minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.- 8
Serve the warm burgers on buns with additional barbecue sauce and pickles.NoteFor crispier patties, ensure the mixture is not too wet; add more flour if necessary.
You can substitute the vegetarian bacon bits with chopped mushrooms or soy curls for a different texture.
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
vegetarian, vegan, bbq, walnut, rice, burger, patty, plant-based, smoky, comfort food, pan-fried, easy dinner - 2