Gluten Free & Vegan California Burger

This is a veggie burger so substantial, it requires a two hand hold. I like to make a double batch of this recipe and keep some in the freezer for whenever a craving strikes... Which is often. For optimal freezer storage, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and then place in a zip top bag.

You’ll Need:

For the burgers:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (optional)*
• 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 chilies in adobo sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey (agave for vegans)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup gluten-free quick oats
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrots
• 1 white onion , diced
• 1/4 cup flaxseed + 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup fresh corn
• 1/4 cup sliced scallion greens

For the guacamole:

• 2 medium avocados , mashed
• 1-2 scallions , sliced
• 1 clove garlic , minced
• 1/2 jalapeno , seeded and diced
• 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt to taste

For the corn salsa:

• 1 cup fresh corn
• 2 tablespoons minced red onion
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• A pinch of salt and pepper
• For serving:
• Sprouts
• Gluten-free buns

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees and coat a cookie sheet with a good layer of oil. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flaxseed and water. Set aside.
3. Add 1/4 cup of the black beans, and chilies into a food processor and process until a paste forms.
4. Add in the flaxseed mixture, lime juice, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and cumin. Process until combined.
5. Add in the black beans and onion and pulse to combine, leaving these ingredients chunky.
6. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the remaining ingredients.
7. Form the mixture into 4 patties and place on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, gently flip the burgers and turn down the oven to 350 degrees. Bake for another 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
8. While the burgers are cooking, stir together all of the guacamole ingredients and the corn salsa ingredients.

Notes:

*For an oil-free burger, bake the patties on a silpat.
** For a vegan option, sub agave in for the honey.