Get ready to revolutionize your vegetarian burger game with these mind-blowing Spicy Quinoa Pita Burgers that will make your taste buds dance! 🌶️🍔 Imagine a protein-packed, flavor-explosive meal that's not just healthy, but incredibly delicious - these burgers are about to become your new obsession. With a perfect blend of quinoa, zesty spices, and fresh toppings, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 4 whole wheat pita breads
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold running water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps to remove any bitterness from the quinoa.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the spice mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 tsp of chili powder, 1/2 tsp of cumin, and 1/4 tsp of salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- After the quinoa has rested, fluff it with a fork and add it to the bowl with the spice mixture. Stir to combine.
- Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro to the quinoa mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should hold together; if it seems too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form the quinoa mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should be able to make about 4 patties.
- Bake the patties in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- While the patties are baking, prepare your pita breads. Cut each whole wheat pita in half to create pockets.
- Once the patties are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- To assemble the burgers, take a pita pocket, place a quinoa patty inside, and top it with sliced avocado and a generous spoonful of salsa.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy your Spicy Quinoa Pita Burgers!
Tips
- Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating (saponin) which can taste bitter.
- Ensure your quinoa mixture is well-bound with breadcrumbs to prevent patties from falling apart during baking.
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly brush the patties with olive oil before baking.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider toasting your spices briefly in a dry pan before mixing them.
- These patties can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making meal prep a breeze.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats as a binder.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
