Eggplant Mushroom Burgers – Hearty, Oil-Free, and Vegan

These eggplant mushroom burgers are not just hearty and flavorful but also completely oil-free. They’re made with nutrient-rich ingredients like mushrooms, eggplant, and kidney beans, making them a wholesome choice for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them on a bun or over a salad, these burgers deliver a satisfying bite every time.

Why Make Eggplant Mushroom Burgers?

These burgers are packed with plant-based proteins, fiber, and nutrients. The combination of eggplant, mushrooms, and kidney beans provides a meaty texture, while the flax seeds and walnuts add healthy fats and a subtle crunch.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped mushrooms

• 1 medium-sized eggplant, chopped

• 5 celery stalks, chopped

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/4 cup ground flax seed

• 1 can kidney beans, drained

• 1 cup cooked brown rice or wild rice

• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 tsp ground rosemary

• 2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pan, sauté the mushrooms, eggplant, and celery over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes.

2. Blend Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a food processor. Add the walnuts, flax seed, kidney beans, rice, nutritional yeast, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is semi-chunky.

3. Shape Patties: Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Using your hands, form the mixture into patties that are 3-4 inches wide and 3/4 inch thick.

4. Bake Burgers: Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 10 minutes until browned.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the burgers on whole-grain buns, lettuce wraps, or with your favorite sides!

Customizing Your Eggplant Mushroom Burgers

• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

• Add herbs: Mix in fresh parsley, basil, or oregano for a different flavor.

• Try different beans: Substitute black beans or chickpeas for a different texture.

These eggplant mushroom burgers are a delicious, nutrient-packed option for a healthy, plant-based meal. Enjoy them for lunch, dinner, or as a meal prep option!