Hearty Vegetarian Fiesta Burger & Wrap Blend
Discover the ultimate in plant-based deliciousness with our Hearty Vegetarian Fiesta Burger & Wrap Blend! This satisfying mashup combines protein-rich black and pinto beans with nutty brown rice, creating a delightful and filling dish that transcends the traditional burger experience. Enhanced with zesty picante sauce and a fragrant blend of spices including chili powder, cumin, garlic, and oregano, this recipe strikes a perfect balance of flavor and heartiness. Perfect for bulk preparation, it's ideal for those busy weeks when you need quick yet wholesome meals. Whether served as a burger, in a wrap, or enjoyed as a standalone dish, this mixture is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, with the option to substitute breadcrumbs with vegan-friendly alternatives, everyone can indulge without compromise. Enjoy the essence of vegetarian cooking at its finest!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Black beans
1 lb (uncooked)
Pinto beans
1 lb (uncooked)
Brown rice
2 cups (uncooked)
Breadcrumbs
15 oz (use vegan if desired)
Picante sauce
32 oz (2 (16 oz) jars)
Chili powder
6 tbsp
Cumin
1 tbsp
Oregano
2 tbsp
Salt
1 tbsp
Black pepper
1 tbsp
Minced garlic
2 tbsp
Cayenne pepper
1 tbsp (optional)
Instructions
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1. Begin by soaking the dry black and pinto beans in a large pot, covered with water. For a quick soak method, bring the water to a boil, then turn off the heat and leave covered for 1.5 hours.
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2. After soaking, drain the beans and refill the pot with fresh water. Bring to a boil once more, then turn down the heat and simmer for approximately 1.5 hours. Once cooked, drain again and allow the beans to cool to room temperature (5-10 minutes is sufficient).
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3. While the beans are cooking, prepare the brown rice. In a separate pot, combine 2 cups of uncooked brown rice with 4 cups of water, bringing it to a boil before covering and simmering for 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
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4. In a large mixing bowl, combine all of the dry seasonings, including chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and optional cayenne pepper along with the breadcrumbs.
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5. Once both the beans and rice have cooled, transfer them into a large mixing bowl (or use the pot you first cooked the beans in if it has enough space).
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6. Gradually fold the dry seasoning mixture into the bean and rice blend, ensuring even distribution. If using multiple bowls, split the mixture accordingly.
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7. Begin the mashing process! Although a potato masher works well at first, using your hands will yield the best texture. As you mash, slowly incorporate picante sauce until you reach your desired consistency (suggested amount is approximately 2 pounds, but adjust based on preference for a firmer or moister mixture).
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8. Once well combined, you can shape the mix into patties for grilling or place it in wraps for a quick meal. Enjoy your Hearty Vegetarian Fiesta Burger & Wrap Blend fresh or freeze leftovers in 2-serving portions for easy meal prep!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hearty Vegetarian Fiesta Burger & Wrap Blend?
It is a protein-rich, plant-based mixture made from black and pinto beans, brown rice, and zesty spices that can be used to make burger patties or wrap fillings.
What are the primary protein sources in this recipe?
The primary protein sources are one pound of dry black beans and one pound of dry pinto beans.
How do I prepare the dry beans using the quick soak method?
Cover the beans with water in a large pot, bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and leave them covered for 1.5 hours.
How long should the beans simmer after soaking?
After soaking and draining, refill the pot with fresh water and simmer the beans for approximately 1.5 hours until cooked.
What is the ratio for cooking the brown rice?
Combine 2 cups of uncooked brown rice with 4 cups of water.
How long does it take to cook the brown rice?
The brown rice should simmer covered for 30-40 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Which spices are included in the dry seasoning mixture?
The mixture includes chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and optional cayenne pepper.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, simply ensure that you use vegan-certified breadcrumbs to make the entire recipe vegan.
How much picante sauce is required?
The recipe suggests using approximately 32 ounces (two 16 oz jars), though you can adjust the amount to reach your desired consistency.
What is the best way to mash the ingredients together?
While a potato masher works initially, using your hands will yield the best texture for the burger and wrap blend.
How should I incorporate the picante sauce?
Slowly incorporate the picante sauce while mashing the mixture until you reach a consistency that is either firm or moist based on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for bulk cooking?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed for bulk preparation, making it ideal for busy weeks or large families.
Can I freeze the Hearty Vegetarian Fiesta Burger & Wrap Blend?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in 2-serving portions for easy meal prep later.
What ways can I serve this mixture?
You can shape the mixture into patties for grilling as burgers, use it as a filling for wraps, or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
Is the cayenne pepper required?
No, the 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
Why is it important to cool the beans and rice before mixing?
Allowing the beans and rice to cool to room temperature makes the mixture easier to handle and mash by hand.
How much chili powder is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of chili powder to provide a robust flavor.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
You can use standard breadcrumbs or substitute with vegan-friendly alternatives if desired.
How much minced garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of minced garlic.
Can I adjust the firmness of the burger patties?
Yes, by adjusting the amount of picante sauce you add during the mashing process, you can make the mixture firmer or moister.
Does this recipe include salt and pepper?
Yes, it includes 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of black pepper.
How much total dry beans are used?
The recipe uses a total of 2 pounds of dry beans: 1 pound of black beans and 1 pound of pinto beans.
Is the rice used in this recipe white or brown?
This recipe specifically uses 2 cups of uncooked brown rice for its nutty flavor and nutritional value.
Should I drain the beans after cooking?
Yes, you should drain the beans both after the soaking phase and after the final simmering phase.
What is the recommended amount of oregano?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of oregano.
What is the recommended amount of cumin?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of cumin.
How do I ensure the seasonings are distributed evenly?
Gradually fold the dry seasoning mixture into the bean and rice blend to ensure an even distribution throughout the bulk mixture.
Can I use a single large pot for mixing?
Yes, if the pot used to cook the beans is large enough, you can use it to mix all the ingredients together.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
It has a zesty and fragrant flavor profile from the chili powder and picante sauce, and can be made spicier with the optional cayenne pepper.
Can I use this recipe for quick weeknight meals?
Absolutely, as it is designed for meal prep and bulk preparation, you can easily use pre-portioned servings for fast meals.