Mouthwatering Homemade Pea Protein Burger Recipes

The Benefits of Pea Protein Burgers

Pea protein has become an increasingly popular base for vegetarian and vegan burger recipes. Made from yellow split peas, pea protein offers a healthy, planet-friendly alternative to beef. Pea protein burgers are cholesterol-free, low in saturated fat, and packed with fiber. Additionally, peas require far fewer resources to grow than cattle, making pea protein a more sustainable choice.

If you're looking to reduce your meat intake for health or environmental reasons, pea protein burgers make an easy, delicious swap. When homemade, these plant-based burgers can be healthier and less expensive than store-bought varieties. Read on for tips on making the best pea protein burger recipes at home.

Choosing a Pea Protein Powder

The foundation of any delicious pea protein burger recipe is a high-quality pea protein powder. When purchasing a powder, look for an organic pea protein isolate for maximum protein content. Avoid powders with many added ingredients, as simpler is generally healthier.

Two of the most popular and readily-available pea protein powder options are:

• Anthony's Pea Protein Isolate
• NOW Sports Pea Protein

Mixing the Burger Batter

Once you've selected a pea protein powder, making burger batter is simple. In a large bowl, whisk together:

• 1 cup pea protein powder
• 14 cup vegetable broth or water
• 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water)
• Additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

Then, stir in your choice of mix-ins like chopped mushrooms, diced onions, shredded carrots, quinoa, or brown rice. The possibilities are endless!

Shaping and Cooking Pea Burgers

Once your batter is mixed, shape it into evenly-sized patties ready for cooking. Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. At this point, you can freeze any unused patties for quick burgers later on.

When ready to cook, you have a choice between baking or pan-frying your veggie pea burgers. Baking will result in a firmer texture, while frying makes a softer, more traditional burger. Cook until heated through and lightly browned.

7 Must-Try Recipes

Experiment with unique flavors, textures, and ingredients to create your ideal pea protein burger recipe. For burger inspiration, here are 7 mouthwatering recipes to try:

1. Southwest Pea Burgers

Packed with corn, bell peppers, avocado, and spices like cumin and cayenne, these Southwest pea protein burgers deliver big, bold Tex-Mex flavor. Cooling avocado provides healthy fats to balance the spice.

2. Greek Pea Burgers

These Mediterranean-inspired veggie burgers feature spinach, red onion, chickpeas, and feta cheese mixed into the pea protein batter. A savory Greek yogurt sauce ties everything together.

3. Beet Pea Burgers

If you want to try something unexpected, give beet pea burgers a chance. Shredded raw beets add natural sweetness, vitamin C, and bright fuchsia color to the patties. They look as good as they taste!

4. Black Bean Pea Burgers

For a protein and fiber double-whammy, add cooked black beans to your veggie burger mix. Spices like cumin and oregano complement the earthy beans and peas.

5. BBQ Jackfruit Pea Burgers

Pulled jackfruit gives these vegan BBQ burgers the perfect shreds and chew. Maple syrup and liquid smoke lend that trademark smoky-sweet barbecue flavor without the meat.

6. Mushroom Pea Burgers

Meaty portobello and cremini mushrooms make a satisfying addition to any veggie burger recipe. For extra rich mushroom flavor, try swapping vegetable broth for mushroom broth.

7. Jalapeo Popper Pea Burgers

If you love game day appetizers, this one's for you. Diced jalapeos, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits recreate the taste of everyone's favorite fried peppers inside a burger bun.

Serving Suggestions

You'll want to highlight, not hide, these delicious homemade pea protein burger creations. Serve them standalone or on a whole grain bun with your favorite burger toppings and sides like:

• Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and condiments like mustard or vegan mayo
• Sweet potato fries, oven fries, tater tots, or onion rings
• Pasta, potato, or green side salads

Or, for an easy plant-based meal, place your pea burger patty over greens or quinoa for a satisfying burger bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pea protein burgers healthy?

Yes, when homemade with whole food ingredients like vegetables, grains and legumes, pea protein burgers deliver lean protein, fiber and key micronutrients with less saturated fat than beef. They make an healthy choice over red meat.

Do pea protein burgers taste good?

They can taste amazing with the right mix of textures and flavors! When spiced and seasoned well, pea protein takes on the flavors it's cooked with remarkably well. The patties end up tasty, meaty and satisfying.

Can you grill pea protein burgers?

Absolutely! Once shaped into patties, pea burgers can be grilled just like beef or turkey burgers. Place them over direct heat on a hot, lightly oiled grill, cooking 3-5 minutes per side. Grilling gives a nice sear and smoky undertone.

So whether you want to eat healthier, help the environment, or just mix up your usual burger routine, incorporating pea protein burgers into your cooking repertoire is an easy and delicious way to do it. With endless flavor combinations, even meat eaters won't miss the beef!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.