Feeding the Runner: Spicy Veggie Burgers

In the bible of running, Once a Runner, Quentin Cassidy lives by the mantra, "If the furnace is hot enough, anything will burn." As much fun as that philosophy may be, it's not the approach most runners take these days. With that in mind, here's the second installment of my occasional posts on healthy recipes for runners (and other people too). Bon appetit! 


As a vegetarian one of the questions I get asked the most is, "What about bacon? I mean, bacon and eggs, bacon ice cream, bacon wrapped tator tots..." The question I get asked the second most? "How do you get your protein?" Well, this recipe is one of those ways. 

The ingredients ready for some mixin'!

These veggie burgers are a mix of high quality carbs and protein so they're great after a run when you want to replenish your system (they also have a lot of fiber, so maybe not the best meal too soon before a run if you know what I mean). 

I swear it tastes better than it looks.

Of course, if you don't run (and even if you eat meat) these are still a satisfying treat. I like these over a bed of mixed greens and roasted beets but you can certainly pop one on a satisfying bun with the topings of your choice. 

Yum!

Spicy Veggie Burgers

Adapted from Runner's World

1 can black beans (15.5 ounces)


1/2 c. cooked quinoa


1 tsp cumin

1 tsp garlic powder


1/2 tsp cayenne pepper


1/2 tsp paprika


1/2 teaspoon sea salt


1 tbls nutritional yeast


1 tbls dijon mustard


1 tbls extra-virgin olive oil

Cook your quinoa according to the instructions on its packaging. While it's cooking rinse your black beans well with cold water.




Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl.

Using your hands or a fork, thorough mix the ingredients, mashing the beans so that they form a paste that holds the mixture together.

Scoop out individuals patties of your desired size between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch thick. In a skillet over high heat, cook the patties in 1/2 tbsp of oil oil on each side (be careful not to burn them!).

Transfer the patties to a baking sheet or casserole dish and place them in a 400 degree oven for 15 minutes.

EAT THEM!!!