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Pulled BBQ Aubergine & Black Bean Burgers

Pulled BBQ Aubergine & Black Bean Burgers

Pulled BBQ Aubergine & Black Bean Burgers are a smoky, tender, and flavorful plant-based burger combining roasted aubergine, hearty black beans, and vibrant barbecue sauce. Perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, these gluten-free and vegan burgers deliver a juicy, satisfying meal ideal for weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 medium aubergines (eggplants)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky and high-quality)
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting and sautéing)
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Ingredients / Binders

  • 1/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour (if mixture is too wet)

Instructions

  1. Roast the Aubergine: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice aubergines in half lengthwise, score the flesh, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden. Once cooled, shred the flesh with a fork to create a pulled texture.
  2. Prepare the Aromatics: Finely chop the onion and garlic. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan, sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  3. Mash and Mix Beans and Flaxseed: In a bowl, mash black beans until mostly smooth but still slightly textured. Stir in the ground flaxseed mixture (flax egg), cooked onion and garlic, roasted aubergine, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix gently to combine without overworking.
  4. Form the Patties: Use your hands to shape the mixture into 4-5 evenly sized patties. If the mixture is too wet to hold shape, add gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour a little at a time until manageable.
  5. Cook the Burgers: Heat a non-stick pan or grill over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and warmed through, developing a crust while keeping the inside tender.

Notes

  • Don’t rush roasting the aubergine to ensure it’s tender and easy to shred.
  • Use high-quality or homemade BBQ sauce for authentic smoky flavor and fewer additives.
  • Chill patties in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold together better.
  • Flip patties gently using a spatula to prevent breaking before the crust forms.
  • Adjust spices based on your taste and dietary preferences, especially for kids or spice-sensitive individuals.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pulled BBQ Aubergine Burger, Black Bean Burger, Vegan Burger, Gluten-Free Burger, Plant-Based Burger, Smoky BBQ Burger