Delicious Mushroom Chickpea Patties: Easy, Healthy, And Flavorful Recipe Guide

how to make mushroom chickpea patties

Mushroom chickpea patties are a delicious, versatile, and plant-based alternative to traditional burgers, combining the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the hearty texture of chickpeas. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet, these patties are easy to make and packed with nutrients. By blending mushrooms, chickpeas, and a mix of spices, you can create a flavorful patty that holds together well and can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. Whether served on a bun with your favorite toppings or as a protein-rich addition to a salad, mushroom chickpea patties are a satisfying and wholesome option for any meal.

Characteristics Values
Main Ingredients Mushrooms, chickpeas, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg (or flax egg for vegan), spices (e.g., cumin, paprika, chili powder)
Preparation Time ~20 minutes (active), 30 minutes (total)
Cooking Time ~15-20 minutes
Servings 4-6 patties
Dietary Considerations Vegetarian, Vegan (if using flax egg), Gluten-free (if using GF breadcrumbs)
Texture Crispy exterior, moist and hearty interior
Flavor Profile Earthy (mushrooms), savory (chickpeas), spiced (cumin, paprika)
Cooking Method Pan-frying or baking
Serving Suggestions In a bun as a burger, with a salad, or as a side dish
Storage Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month
Reheating Pan-fry or bake until heated through
Nutritional Highlights High in protein, fiber, and low in fat (if baked)
Customization Add cheese, herbs (e.g., parsley, cilantro), or swap spices for different flavors
Difficulty Level Easy to intermediate
Equipment Needed Food processor, skillet, baking sheet (optional)

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Gather Ingredients: Mushrooms, chickpeas, breadcrumbs, spices, onion, garlic, egg, oil, salt, and pepper

To begin crafting your mushroom chickpea patties, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. The foundation of these patties lies in mushrooms and chickpeas, which provide both texture and flavor. Opt for fresh mushrooms, such as button or cremini, and ensure you have a can of chickpeas drained and rinsed. These two ingredients will be the stars of your dish, so choose high-quality options for the best results.

Next, focus on the binding and texture elements. Breadcrumbs are essential for holding the patties together, so have a cup of plain breadcrumbs ready. If you prefer a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, you’ll need one large egg, which acts as a binder to keep the mixture cohesive. Crack the egg into a small bowl and set it aside for later use.

Flavor is key, so don’t skimp on the spices, onion, and garlic. Finely chop one medium onion and mince 2-3 cloves of garlic to add depth to your patties. For spices, gather salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like paprika, cumin, or chili powder to suit your taste. Measure out 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper as a starting point, adjusting later if needed.

Finally, prepare the cooking essentials: oil for cooking and any optional garnishes. Have about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or another neutral oil ready for pan-frying the patties. Ensure your pantry is stocked with these items before proceeding to the next steps, as having everything prepared will make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable. With all ingredients gathered, you’re now ready to move on to preparing the mushroom chickpea mixture.

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Prepare Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms until golden, then chop finely for patty mix

To begin preparing the mushrooms for your chickpea patties, start by selecting fresh, firm mushrooms. Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work well for this recipe due to their earthy flavor and meaty texture. Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or brushing off any dirt with a mushroom brush. Avoid soaking them in water, as mushrooms absorb moisture quickly, which can dilute their flavor. Once cleaned, trim the stems if necessary and slice the mushrooms into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture in your final patty mix.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or another neutral cooking oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 30 seconds, ensuring the pan is adequately coated. Carefully add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer as much as possible. Sauté the mushrooms, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden brown. The goal here is to cook out the excess moisture and concentrate their flavor, which will enhance the overall taste of your patties. Be patient and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the mushrooms to steam instead of sauté.

As the mushrooms cook, you’ll notice they release moisture and then begin to brown as the liquid evaporates. This browning process, known as caramelization, adds depth and richness to their flavor. Once the mushrooms are golden and slightly crispy around the edges, remove them from the heat and transfer them to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Allow the mushrooms to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step, as this makes them easier to handle and chop.

Now that the mushrooms are sautéed and cooled, it’s time to chop them finely for the patty mix. Place the sautéed mushrooms on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to mince them into small, even pieces. The finer the chop, the more evenly distributed the mushroom flavor will be throughout the patties. Aim for a texture that is almost paste-like but still retains some small chunks for added bite. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can pulse the mushrooms a few times in a food processor, but be careful not to overprocess, as this can make them too mushy.

Once the mushrooms are finely chopped, set them aside and prepare the remaining ingredients for your chickpea patty mix. The sautéed and chopped mushrooms will serve as a flavorful base, combining beautifully with the chickpeas, spices, and binders to create a cohesive and delicious patty. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor balance, ensuring your mushroom chickpea patties are both satisfying and packed with umami goodness.

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Mash Chickpeas: Partially mash chickpeas to create a chunky, cohesive base

To begin the process of making mushroom chickpea patties, the first crucial step is to mash the chickpeas to create a chunky, cohesive base. Start by draining and rinsing a can of chickpeas thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch and liquid. This step ensures that the chickpeas are clean and ready for mashing. Transfer the rinsed chickpeas to a large mixing bowl, which will serve as your workspace for combining all the ingredients. The goal here is not to create a smooth puree but rather a textured mixture that will hold the patty together while maintaining some bite.

Using a potato masher, fork, or even your hands, begin to partially mash the chickpeas. Apply gentle pressure to break down the chickpeas, but be mindful not to overdo it. You want to achieve a consistency where about half of the chickpeas are mashed into a paste, while the other half remain mostly whole or in large chunks. This balance is key to creating a patty that is both cohesive and pleasantly textured. Over-mashing can lead to a paste that’s too wet and lacks structure, while under-mashing may result in a mixture that falls apart.

As you mash, take a moment to assess the consistency of the chickpeas. The mixture should hold together when pressed but still have visible chunks. If it feels too dry or crumbly, add a tablespoon of water or olive oil to help bind the ingredients without making it too wet. Conversely, if the mixture seems too wet, you can gently fold in a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or flour to absorb excess moisture. This step is about finding the right balance to ensure the patties will hold their shape during cooking.

Once the chickpeas are adequately mashed, set the bowl aside momentarily. This base will serve as the foundation for the rest of the patty ingredients, such as mushrooms, spices, and binders. The chunky texture of the mashed chickpeas not only adds a satisfying bite to the patties but also helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the mixture. Remember, the goal is to create a base that is both sturdy enough to form into patties and versatile enough to blend with other ingredients seamlessly.

Finally, before moving on to the next step, give the mashed chickpeas a quick taste test. If desired, season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. This preliminary seasoning will ensure that the chickpea base is flavorful on its own, which will complement the other ingredients in the patties. With the chickpeas properly mashed and seasoned, you’re now ready to incorporate the sautéed mushrooms, spices, and binders to complete the patty mixture.

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Mix Ingredients: Combine all ingredients, form into patties, and chill for 30 minutes

To begin the process of making mushroom chickpea patties, gather all your ingredients in one place. You’ll typically need cooked chickpeas, sautéed mushrooms, breadcrumbs, a binding agent like flaxseed meal or an egg, minced garlic, chopped onions, fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), spices (like cumin, paprika, and salt), and a splash of olive oil. Ensure your mushrooms are finely chopped and cooked until most of their moisture has evaporated, as excess liquid can affect the patty’s texture. Similarly, if using cooked chickpeas, lightly mash them to create a base that will hold the patties together while still maintaining some texture.

Once all ingredients are prepped, combine them in a large mixing bowl. Start by adding the mashed chickpeas, followed by the sautéed mushrooms, breadcrumbs, and binding agent. Incorporate the minced garlic, chopped onions, and fresh herbs next, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Add your spices and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance flavor and moisture. Mix everything thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until the mixture is cohesive but not overly sticky. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a bit more oil or binding agent.

After mixing, it’s time to form the patties. Scoop out a portion of the mixture (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup per patty) and gently shape it into a patty using your hands. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch to ensure even cooking. Place each formed patty on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. If the mixture is too soft to handle, lightly wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Once all patties are formed, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is a crucial step as it helps the patties firm up, making them easier to cook without falling apart. The cold temperature also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Cover the patties loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out while chilling.

While the patties chill, you can prepare your cooking method of choice—whether it’s baking, pan-frying, or air-frying. This resting period is also a good time to prepare any accompaniments, such as a salad, sauce, or buns. After 30 minutes, your mushroom chickpea patties will be ready to cook, holding their shape beautifully and delivering a delicious blend of flavors and textures.

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Cook Patties: Pan-fry until crispy on both sides, serve with desired toppings

To cook your mushroom chickpea patties to perfection, start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a generous amount of oil, such as olive or avocado oil, ensuring the entire cooking surface is well-coated. Allow the oil to heat for about 1-2 minutes; it should be hot but not smoking. Carefully place the patties into the skillet, leaving enough space between them to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on the first side, or until they develop a golden-brown, crispy crust. Avoid the temptation to move them too early, as this can cause them to break apart.

Once the first side is crispy, use a spatula to gently flip each patty. Cook the second side for another 4-5 minutes, or until it’s equally golden and crispy. If the patties seem to be browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to medium-low to ensure they cook through without burning. Press lightly on the patties with the spatula to check for firmness; they should feel solid and not mushy. If you’re using a non-stick skillet, you may need less oil, but ensure the surface is still well-greased for optimal crispiness.

While the patties are cooking, prepare your desired toppings and sides. Popular options include fresh arugula, sliced avocado, tomato, red onion, or a drizzle of tahini or garlic aioli. You can also serve the patties in a bun as a sandwich or alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables. Having everything ready ensures your patties stay hot and crispy when served.

Once both sides are crispy and the patties are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Let them rest for 1-2 minutes to allow the textures to set. This brief resting period helps maintain their structure and enhances the overall eating experience. If you’re cooking in batches, keep the finished patties warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you cook the remaining ones.

Finally, serve the mushroom chickpea patties hot, topped with your chosen ingredients. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender, flavorful interior will make each bite satisfying. These patties are versatile, so feel free to experiment with toppings to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or part of a larger meal, the pan-fried crispiness will undoubtedly be the star of the dish.

Frequently asked questions

You’ll need chickpeas, mushrooms, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs (or a vegan binder like flaxseed), spices (like cumin, paprika, and salt), fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), and oil for cooking.

Finely chop the mushrooms and sauté them in a pan with olive oil until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. This step enhances their flavor and removes excess water.

Yes, you can use a vegan binder like a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) or mashed chickpeas to hold the patties together.

Ensure the mixture is well-bound by using enough breadcrumbs or mashed chickpeas. Chill the mixture in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before shaping and cooking to help them hold together.

Pan-fry them in a skillet with a bit of oil over medium heat until golden brown on both sides, or bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes for a healthier option.

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