Curried Chickpea Burgers are a vegetarian's dream when it comes to BBQs and cookouts; super flavorful and moist patties with a crisp exterior hold up to all the toppings. Your new favorite that's easy to make in just 30 minutes!
Begin cooking the brown rice according to package directions, if you haven't already. The microwave packets are great to make it quick and easy.
In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the shallot and garlic until coarsely chopped. Then add the remaining ingredients except for the flour and panko. This includes: cooked brown rice, chickpeas, lemon juice, greek yogurt, turmeric, curry powder, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pulse until coarsely combined.
Add the flour and panko and pulse a few more times until the mixture forms together but there is still some texture left to it. Place in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. You can form them now, too, but they will likely be extra sticky.
Form 4 equal sized patties (you may want to use lightly floured hands if they are sticky; just work quickly!). Cook patties according to your method of choice:
Stovetop (preferred method): Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with an oil of your choice. Once hot, place patties on pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through when golden brown on the first side.
Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 345°F (no need to preheat). Lightly spray the rack and the top of the burgers with cooking oil. Place the patties evenly in the basket of your airfryer and cook for 18 minutes or so, flipping halfway through. Do note that time may vary depending on your model, so keep an eye on it once you flip.
Baking: Pre-heat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet or it with parchment paper. Place the patties on the pan with space between, using an oven safe cooling rack if you have one. Bake for 24-26 minutes until slightly golden brown.
Serve the burgers with buns (brioche buns are amazing!), fresh cilantro, yogurt sauce (see below), tomato, and lettuce as desired. Also great on top of a salad!
Notes
Yogurt Sauce: stir together yogurt, cilantro, salt and pepper, and a little lemon juice to taste.