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–+ servings
Grill-Worthy Beet and Tempeh Burgers – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Grill-Worthy Beet and Tempeh Burgers

Discover the ultimate grill-worthy veggie burger! These Beet and Tempeh Burgers are hearty, high-protein, juicy, and flavorful, featuring grated raw beet for moisture and color, a savory tempeh base, and vital wheat gluten for the perfect chew.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 8 pattie
Calories: 218

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Tbs / 60 ml (2 fl oz) light miso paste
  • ¼ cup (60 ml / 2 fl oz) water
  • 2 8-oz / 227-g packages tempeh, grated
  • 3 Tbs / 45 ml (1.5 fl oz) canola oil, divided
  • ½ cup (60 g / 2.12 oz) vital wheat gluten
  • 2 Tbs / 20 g (0.71 oz) guar gum
  • 1 portobello mushroom, stemmed and grated, about ¾ cup / 75 g (2.65 oz)
  • 1 small beet, grated, about ¾ cup / 110 g (3.9 oz)
  • 1 small onion, grated, about ½ cup / 80 g (2.82 oz)
  • 1 small carrot, grated, about ½ cup / 60 g (2.12 oz)
  • ½ cup (75 g / 2.65 oz) fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • ½ medium green bell pepper, finely chopped, about ⅓ cup / 50 g (1.76 oz)
  • ½ medium red bell pepper, finely chopped, about ⅓ cup / 50 g (1.76 oz)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced, about 2 tsp / 10 g (0.35 oz)
  • Texture is key. When pulsing the in the food processor, aim for a coarse, blended texture, not a smooth paste. A few quick pulses are all you need to keep some of that hearty veggie and tempeh structure.
  • Grating shortcut. To save time and effort, use the shredding disk attachment on your food processor for the tempeh, mushroom, beet, onion, and carrot.
  • Alternative cooking methods. No grill? These patties pan-fry beautifully in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side. You can also bake them at 400°F / 200°C for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F / 175°C. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the miso paste and ¼ cup of water until smooth.
  3. Add the grated tempeh and 1½ Tbs. of the canola oil, stirring to combine well.
  4. Sprinkle in the vital wheat gluten and guar gum, and mix until a cohesive dough forms.
  5. Mound the tempeh mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, cover it loosely with foil, and bake for 20 minutes, or until it's firm and heated through.
  6. While the tempeh bakes, heat the remaining 1½ Tbs. of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the grated mushroom, beet, onion, carrot, corn, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
  8. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
  9. Transfer the cooked vegetables and the baked tempeh mixture to a food processor. Pulse 6 to 7 times, just until the mixture is combined but still has some texture. Be careful not to over-blend into a paste.
  10. Form the mixture into 8 evenly-sized patties.
  11. Place them on a plate or baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and the patties to firm up.
  12. When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat.
  13. Brush both the burgers and the grill rack with a little oil to prevent sticking.
  14. Grill for 8 to 10 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and heated through.
  15. Serve immediately on your favorite buns with all the fixings.
  16. Don't skip the chill time! Refrigerating the patties is essential. It allows the vital wheat gluten to fully activate, ensuring the burgers are firm and hold their shape perfectly on the grill.

Nutrition

Calories: 218kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 20gFat: 9g

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