There’s never been better time to find delicious, meat-free alternatives to traditional burgers. But many processed plant-based patties are as high (or higher) in sodium and saturated fat as beef burgers. The umami in mushrooms give this veggie burger its savory taste and satisfying texture. An added bonus? This burger delivers more fiber and fewer calories than its beef counterpart.
Whole-Food, Plant-Based Spotlight
This recipe contains egg, so it’s vegetarian (lacto-ovo to be specific) rather than vegan. To make this whole-food, plant-based burger vegan, use an egg substitute. Our culinary team suggests a “flax egg.” Simply mix 2 Tablespoons of water with 1 ½ Tablespoons of ground flax meal, let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture soaks up some liquid, and then use as an egg substitute.
How to Make Mushroom Lentil Veggie Burgers
Step 1: Combine the ingredients
Place all of the ingredients, except the breadcrumbs and half of the lentils into the Vitamix food processor fitted with the multi-use blade and secure the lid.
Step 2: Pulse the Mixture
Pulse the ingredients 6 – 8 times. Remove the lid and scrape down the sides of the processor. Secure the lid and pulse an additional 6 – 8 times or until the mixture is uniform and consistent.
Step 3: Add lentils and breadcrumbs and chill
Place the mixture into a mixing bowl and add the remaining lentils and bread crumbs. Mix with a spatula. Chill for 30 minutes.
If the mixture isn't sticking together, add 1–2 Tablespoons of flour. In this recipe, flour acts as a binder to help the burger keep its shape. If wheat flour isn’t to your taste, try chickpea or buckwheat flour.
Step 4: Cook burgers
Heat a large nonstick frying pan over medium high heat. Add 1 Tablespoon of olive oil. Place 3.5 ounce portions (½ cup) of the burger mixture in the frying pan and flatten slightly using a spatula. Cook for 2 and a half to 3 minutes on each side, flipping carefully, until golden brown and crispy.
Put this veggie burger on a whole wheat bun and top off with lettuce, tomato, onion, and non-dairy cheese for a hearty, healthy meal.
