how to add more flavor to this dish? (wine, ingredients, burgers)

[KittenSparkles]

I have a recipe for black bean burgers that I like, but its a bit bland... I need some ideas for how to give these more flavor - any ideas appreciated!

the ingredients:

black beans
cornstarch
onion
mayo
chili powder
salt/pepper

[Palenaka]

Originally Posted by KittenSparkles

I have a recipe for black bean burgers that I like, but its a bit bland... I need some ideas for how to give these more flavor - any ideas appreciated!

the ingredients:

black beans
cornstarch
onion
mayo
chili powder
salt/pepper

Sounds good but I would add some garlic, fresh corn, diced peppers and ground cumin.

[MsAnnThrope]

definitely a bunch of garlic.

Maybe some fresh herbs too like parsley or coriander?

I love pepper so I'd double it, or put both white and black pepper in.

Some soya sauce would give it a kick. I wll often put some powdered stock in too, or maybe you could try some ketchup or bbq sauce.

[elnina]

All of the above and a touch of chili or cayenne pepper or hot sauce, just t give it a kick
Couple slices of red onion on the top - nice and crunchy!

[KittenSparkles]

Great ideas, thanks!! These will turn a good recipe into a great one!

[Happy in Wyoming]

Originally Posted by KittenSparkles

I have a recipe for black bean burgers that I like, but its a bit bland... I need some ideas for how to give these more flavor - any ideas appreciated!

the ingredients:

black beans
cornstarch
onion
mayo
chili powder
salt/pepper

Originally Posted by Palenaka

Sounds good but I would add some garlic, fresh corn, diced peppers and ground cumin.

I thought of garlic and cumin as soon as I read the recipe. Diced peppers could be good but don't use anything too hot or you'll have a different dish. I would consider adding wine. There are two ways that come to mind. The first is to add 2 Tbsp of dry Madeira, Sherry, or Port to each pound of the mix. The specific wine and amounts will require experimentation.

If you are not concerned whether the result is vegan I have what might be an interesting idea. Use a mixture of two parts chicken stock and one part dry vermouth. Cook it slowly for something of a braised effect. This should bring out all of the flavors and avoid the bland taste. If you have extra liquid at the end try it over rice or vegetables that may accompany the burgers. You could also pour it into a glass and drink it when no one's looking.

The chicken stock and vermouth mixture definitely works on meat burgers as well.

[KittenSparkles]

I think I am going to add garlic, cumin, chopped red bell peppers, and corn.

I'll post and tell you how they turned out.

I make them in the shape of a small rectangle so I can put them in a taco shell with toppings such as avocado slices, grated cheese, and salsa.

[CowanStern]

It needs a little meat. Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipes call for a kind of sausage, and a polish sausage will do. It doesn't take much, about a half-ounce per serving will make a noticeable difference. Or try throwing in about about a half a strip of bacon per serving.

Unless you need to satisfy the requirements of vegetarian guests.

[nmnita]

Originally Posted by KittenSparkles

I have a recipe for black bean burgers that I like, but its a bit bland... I need some ideas for how to give these more flavor - any ideas appreciated!

the ingredients:

black beans
cornstarch
onion
mayo
chili powder
salt/pepper

How about cumin, cilantro or maybe an Asian touch with a little soy sause and ginger for starters?

[jlawrence01]

Why corn starch?