Go Back
A gyro-flavored protein-packed vegan bean burger topped with homemade tzatziki

Really Simple "Gyro" Bean Burgers

Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Total time: 30 mins
Yield: 6 servings

Description

To make Tzatziki, mix 1 seedless cucumber—grated and squeezed dry—with 1 cup whole or 2% Greek yogurt*, 2 minced garlic cloves, 4 teaspoons red wine vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste.
*You can use plain almond-based yogurt, which is thick enough to make Tzatziki. Plain coconut-based yogurt is too thin, resulting in soggy bun.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 2 cans (15-16 oz each) small white beans, drained, liquid reserved, 1/2 left whole, 1/2 fork-mashed
  • 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes, optional
  • Tzatziki (see note above) and thinly sliced tomatoes (lightly salted)
  • 6 hamburger buns

Instructions

  • Stir chia seeds into 2/3 cup of the reserved bean liquid in a small bowl; let sit for a few minutes until chia seeds start to thicken the liquid.
  • Meanwhile, place beans, breadcrumbs, vinegar, oregano, pepper, garlic, and pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Stir in chia mixture with a fork until mixture holds together. Taste mixture and adjust seasonings, including salt, if necessary. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and flatten into 4-inch patties. Following Stovetop or Grill Method, cook burgers. While burgers cook, make Tzatziki. Spread buns with Tzatziki, top with burgers, sliced tomatoes, and serve.
  • Stovetop Method: Heat 2 tablespoons olive or canola oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook, turning only once, until a crisp brown crust forms on both sides, 8 to 10 minutes total.
  • Grill Method: Heat all burners of a gas grill on high. Lightly brush burger tops with oil. Place burgers, oiled side down on hot rack, cover and grill until spotty brown, about 3 minutes. Lightly brush tops with oil and turn. Cover and continue to grill until burgers are spotty brown on remaining side, about 3 minutes longer