Ultimate Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burgers: Easy, Healthy & Delicious Homemade Patties
For years, veggie burgers have been a staple in many kitchens, offering a delightful and often healthier alternative to traditional meat patties. Among the myriad of recipes available, this particular Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burger recipe, inspired by culinary expert Sara Moulton, holds a special place in my heart – and apparently, in my daughter’s too! When I first experimented with this recipe years ago, I was genuinely surprised by how much my daughter, then a discerning eater, adored them. Looking back, it seems she developed an unexpected affection for anything featuring chickpeas, and these flavorful burgers might just have been the catalyst. Whatever the reason, these homemade patties remain a consistent favorite, lauded for their incredible texture, rich flavor, and satisfying heartiness.
Recipe
Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burgers
Cookie Madness
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ medium onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves or a pinch or two of powdered rosemary
- 1 19 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leafed parsley
- ½ cup fine fresh bread crumbs
- ¾ cup walnuts toasted and chopped
- 1 large egg
- A pinch of salt and a few turns of the pepper mill
Instructions
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Prep all the ingredients and lay them out.
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In a food processor pulse garlic, onion, and rosemary until chopped. Add chickpeas, parsley, and bread crumbs and pulse until just combined.
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Transfer mixture to a bowl and stir in walnuts, egg, and salt and pepper, to taste, until well combined. Form mixture into four 3-inch patties. Chill patties, covered, at least 1 hour and up to 1 day.
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In a large skillet (cast iron helps form a nice crust, but nonstick works too) heat oil over moderate heat until hot but not smoking. Cook patties until golden brown, about 4 minutes on each side.
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Arrange burgers on a foil lined baking sheet and heat in a 350 degree oven for about 5 to 10 minutes or until ready to serve. You can skip this last step if you want, but it makes the burgers a little hotter, plus it gives you time to finish prepping all the other components of the meal.
Notes
The Allure of Homemade Veggie Burgers
In a world increasingly seeking healthier and more sustainable food options, homemade veggie burgers have risen in popularity. Beyond their environmental benefits, they offer a canvas for creativity in the kitchen and can be incredibly satisfying. This particular chickpea and walnut combination stands out because it strikes a perfect balance: it’s substantial enough to feel like a “real” burger, yet light and packed with plant-based goodness. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight meal plan or a relaxed weekend barbecue, proving that vegetarian food can be both exciting and comforting.
Why These Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burgers Are a Must-Try
What makes this specific recipe a winner? It’s a combination of thoughtfully selected ingredients and simple techniques that yield impressive results. Unlike some dry or crumbly veggie burgers, these patties boast a fantastic texture – slightly crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, with delightful bits of toasted walnut providing a satisfying crunch. The aromatic base of garlic, onion, and fresh rosemary infuses the burgers with a depth of flavor that is truly remarkable, elevating them beyond typical vegetarian fare.
The Powerhouse Ingredients: Chickpeas
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are the backbone of these veggie burgers. They are not only an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber but also contribute significantly to the burger’s texture. When pulsed in a food processor, they break down just enough to provide a creamy, yet still slightly chunky, base that holds the patties together beautifully. Their mild, earthy flavor makes them a versatile ingredient that readily absorbs the other vibrant flavors in the recipe, creating a harmonious and delicious profile.
The Crunchy Delight: Walnuts
Walnuts are the secret weapon in this recipe, bringing both flavor and an essential textural element. Toasting the walnuts before adding them deepens their nutty flavor, adding a layer of richness that complements the chickpeas. Their natural oils also contribute to a moist interior, preventing the burgers from becoming dry. Beyond taste and texture, walnuts are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients, making these burgers a truly healthy choice.
Aromatic Foundation: Garlic, Onion, and Rosemary
A good burger, meat or veggie, relies on a strong flavor foundation. This recipe utilizes a classic trio of aromatics: fresh garlic, onion, and rosemary. Pulsing these ingredients together in the food processor ensures they are finely chopped and evenly distributed, releasing their potent flavors throughout the mixture. Rosemary, with its distinctive piney and slightly peppery notes, pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of chickpeas and the richness of walnuts, providing a sophisticated and inviting aroma.
Binding and Freshness: Parsley, Breadcrumbs, and Egg
To ensure the patties hold together during cooking, we incorporate fresh flat-leaf parsley, fine fresh breadcrumbs, and a large egg. The breadcrumbs act as an absorbent binder, soaking up any excess moisture and contributing to a firm yet tender patty. The egg provides additional binding, helping to create that desirable “burger-like” consistency. Fresh parsley adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the overall flavor, preventing the burgers from tasting heavy.
Crafting Your Perfect Veggie Patties: Tips for Success
While the recipe is straightforward, a few key tips can elevate your Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burgers from good to absolutely fantastic. Paying attention to these details will ensure your patties are perfectly formed, cooked, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredient Prep: Ensuring Consistency
The first step, prepping all ingredients, is crucial. This means having your garlic and onion peeled, rosemary leaves picked, chickpeas drained and rinsed thoroughly, parsley chopped, and walnuts toasted and roughly chopped. A little bit of mise en place makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Ensure your breadcrumbs are fine; if you’re using fresh bread, processing it into fine crumbs will help with binding.
The Magic of the Food Processor
The food processor is your best friend for this recipe. It efficiently chops the aromatics and breaks down the chickpeas, ensuring a consistent mixture. However, be careful not to over-process the mixture. You want it to be combined and sticky enough to form patties, but still retain some texture from the chickpeas and walnuts. Over-processing can lead to a paste-like consistency, which might result in a less satisfying burger.
Forming and Chilling: The Secret to Stability
After combining all the ingredients, forming the mixture into four 3-inch patties is critical. Aim for an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. The chilling step is perhaps the most important tip for success. Refrigerating the patties for at least an hour (or up to a full day) allows the ingredients to meld together and the binders to firm up. This greatly reduces the chance of the burgers falling apart during cooking, giving you perfectly shaped, stable patties.
Cooking Methods: Pan-Frying vs. Oven Finish
For that beautiful golden-brown crust, pan-frying in a large skillet is recommended. A cast iron skillet is particularly excellent for achieving a crisp exterior, thanks to its superior heat retention. However, a good nonstick skillet will also do the trick. Cook the patties over moderate heat to ensure they cook through without burning the outside. The optional final step of heating them in a 350-degree oven is a brilliant hack: it ensures the burgers are warmed evenly throughout and allows you to perfectly time the readiness of other meal components, without the rush of cooking everything simultaneously on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Burger Experience
A great veggie burger deserves to be dressed up! Here are some ideas to make your Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burgers an unforgettable meal:
- Buns: Opt for brioche buns for a touch of sweetness, whole wheat for a healthier choice, or go bun-less with large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Classic Toppings: Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and tangy pickles are always a hit.
- Creative Sauces: Beyond ketchup and mustard, consider a creamy avocado spread, a zesty sriracha mayo, a homemade tahini-garlic sauce, or a dollop of your favorite hummus.
- Cheese (or Not): A slice of melted cheddar or a dairy-free cheese alternative can add an extra layer of richness.
- Side Dishes: As noted in the recipe, roasted broccoli is an excellent accompaniment. Sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or a vibrant coleslaw also make fantastic sides.
Customizing Your Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burgers
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various customizations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Flavor Variations:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cumin, or a touch of chili powder to the mixture for a bolder flavor.
- Herb Alternatives: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, thyme or oregano can also be wonderful additions. Fresh dill or cilantro could offer a different, refreshing profile.
- Citrus Zest: A little lemon zest mixed in can brighten the entire burger, especially if serving with a creamy sauce.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Gluten-Free: Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or certified gluten-free rolled oats (pulsed briefly in the food processor).
- Vegan Option: To make these burgers entirely plant-based, replace the large egg with a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to sit for 5 minutes until gel-like). This will maintain the binding properties.
- Adding More Veggies: Finely grated carrots, zucchini (squeezed of excess moisture), or chopped mushrooms can be added to the mix for extra nutrients and flavor.
Meal Prepping and Storage Tips
These chickpea walnut veggie burgers are excellent for meal prepping. You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before forming and cooking. Once the patties are formed, they can be chilled for up to a day. For longer storage:
- Uncooked Patties: Place formed, uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to each side.
- Cooked Burgers: Fully cooked burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet, oven, or air fryer until warmed through.
Conclusion: A Wholesome and Satisfying Meal for Everyone
These Chickpea Walnut Veggie Burgers are more than just a recipe; they are a testament to how flavorful, satisfying, and easy plant-based eating can be. With their delightful texture, robust flavor profile, and nutritional benefits, they are sure to become a beloved staple in your household, just as they have in mine. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative, a delicious vegetarian option, or simply a new family favorite, these homemade veggie burgers are an excellent choice. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings and sides to make them uniquely yours. Enjoy the process of creating these wonderful patties, and savor every bite!