A rich, savory vegetarian burger packed with earthy mushrooms, nutty wild rice, oats, herbs, and smoky flavor. These patties are crisp outside, tender inside, and perfect for burgers, wraps, or grain bowls.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties
- 1 cup cooked wild rice
- 2 cups mushrooms (cremini, button, or portobello), finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Optional Toppings
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickled onions
- Avocado
- Vegan mayo or garlic aioli
- Cheese slices
For Serving
- Burger buns
- Sweet potato fries
- Fresh salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Wild Rice
Cook wild rice according to package instructions until tender. Let it cool slightly before using.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add:
- onions
- mushrooms
- garlic
Cook for 8–10 minutes until mushrooms release moisture and become browned. This step builds deep flavor and prevents soggy burgers.
3. Make the Burger Mixture
In a large bowl combine:
- cooked wild rice
- mushroom mixture
- oats
- breadcrumbs
- egg
- soy sauce
- mustard
- smoked paprika
- thyme
- salt and pepper
Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together.
If too wet:
- add more breadcrumbs
If too dry:
- add a splash of water or olive oil
4. Shape the Patties
Form into 4–6 burger patties.
Place them on a tray and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This helps them stay firm while cooking.
5. Cook the Burgers
Pan-Fry Method
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook patties for:
- 4–5 minutes per side
until golden brown and crisp.
Oven Method
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for about:
- 25 minutes
Flip halfway through cooking.
6. Assemble
Toast burger buns lightly.
Layer with:
- lettuce
- wild rice mushroom patty
- toppings of choice
- sauce
Serve warm.
Flavor Tips
- Add chopped walnuts for extra texture.
- Use portobello mushrooms for a meatier taste.
- Add chipotle powder for spice.
- Fresh parsley brightens the flavor.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store cooked patties for:
- up to 4 days
Freezer
Freeze uncooked or cooked patties for:
- up to 2 months
Separate with parchment paper for easy use.
Vegan Version
Replace the egg with:
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water
Let sit for 5 minutes before mixing.
Use vegan buns and vegan mayo.
Key Takeaways
- Wild rice gives a chewy, hearty texture.
- Mushrooms create deep umami flavor.
- Chilling the patties helps prevent breaking.
- Great meat-free option with high flavor and satisfying texture.
- Easy to customize with herbs, spices, and toppings.
Enjoy your homemade West Coast-style veggie burgers with a smoky, rustic flavor and satisfying bite.
