Hey there, fellow food and craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, and today we’re diving into the world of healthy and delicious cooking with a recipe that’s perfect for any season – Pumpkin Seed Protein Burgers!
You might be thinking, “Pumpkin? In burgers?” Trust me on this one. These aren’t your average veggie burgers. We’re taking the humble patty to a whole new level of flavor and nutrition, using pumpkin seed protein powder as our secret ingredient.
Why Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder?
Before you dismiss the pumpkin, let me tell you, this isn’t about pumpkin spice everything. Pumpkin seed protein powder is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Plus, it adds a uniquely delicious, slightly nutty flavor to these burgers.
I’ve been using Sprout Living’s Simple Pumpkin Seed Protein, a brand I personally trust for its quality and commitment to pure ingredients. No additives or fillers here, just pure pumpkin seed goodness!
Let’s Get Cooking!
Ready to get your hands dirty? Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and how to create these delectable protein-packed patties:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- 1 Cup Diced Onion
- 1 Teaspoon Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 (14-ounce) Can Chickpeas, Drained
- 1/2 Cup Pumpkin Puree
- 1 Tablespoon Yellow Mustard
- 1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1/4 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 Cup Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Recommended Products:
- [Roland Foods Balsamic Vinegar Glaze of Modena](link to product) – For that perfect tangy sweetness.
- [La Tourangelle, 100% Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil](link to product) – For a rich and flavorful base.
- [Sprout Living, Simple Pumpkin Seed Protein, 1 lb](link to product) – The star ingredient for added nutrition and flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly grease the foil and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and diced onions. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, or until they become fragrant and lightly golden brown. Don’t overcook the garlic, as it can burn easily.
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Deglaze and Cool: Pour the balsamic vinegar into the pan to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes.
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Prepare the Chickpea Base: In a separate bowl, use a fork or potato masher to roughly mash the chickpeas. You want a slightly coarse texture to ensure a satisfying bite in your burgers.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree, yellow mustard, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well to incorporate.
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Add the Aromatics and Protein Powder: Once the sautéed garlic and onion mixture has cooled, add it to the chickpea mixture and stir. Now, incorporate the pumpkin seed protein powder, ensuring no dry pockets remain. The mixture should be soft and manageable, allowing you to mold it into patties.
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Shape and Bake the Patties: Divide the burger mixture into 1/3 – 1/2 cup portions. With slightly dampened hands, form each portion into a round, flat patty. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least an inch between them. Bake for 15 minutes, flip them carefully, and bake for another 10 minutes or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.
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Cooling and Serving: Let the patties cool for 10-15 minutes on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy them immediately while hot or allow them to cool completely for storing. These patties also freeze beautifully for up to 6 months.
"Pumpkin Seed Protein Burgers on a wooden cutting board."
Tips and Tricks:
- Adjust the Consistency: If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or additional pumpkin seed protein powder at a time until you reach the desired texture.
- Get Creative with Flavors: Experiment with different herbs and spices! Smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can add a delicious kick.
- Serving Suggestions: These burgers are incredibly versatile! Enjoy them on toasted buns with your favorite toppings, crumble them over salads, or serve them as a hearty side dish.
The Perfect Blend of Nutrition and Flavor
These Pumpkin Seed Protein Burgers are more than just a meal; they’re a testament to the creativity and delicious possibilities of plant-based cooking. With a boost of protein and fiber, they’re sure to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media and explore Robert Kline Art for more inspiring DIY projects and recipes. Happy cooking!