• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Shahzadi Devje, Desi~licious RD logo

  • Home
  • Start Here
    • About Shahzadi
    • My Story
    • Work With Me
  • Blog
  • Recipes
    • Recipe Type →
      • Breakfast and Brunch
      • Drinks and Smoothies
      • Main Dishes
      • Salads
      • Sides and Snacks
      • Sweets and Desserts
    • Dietary Preference →
      • Dairy Free
      • Diabetes Diet Friendly
      • Gluten Free
      • Heart Healthy
      • High Protein
      • Low Carb
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
    • Cuisine →
      • Desi (Indian, Pakistani)
      • Mediterranean
      • Middle Eastern
  • Media/Brands
    • Media Features
    • Videos
  • Shop
    • Products
    • Cart
    • Checkout
    • My Account
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • About Shahzadi
  • Blog
  • Recipes
  • Work With Me
  • Media & Brands
  • Videos
  • Shop
  • Cart
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Main Dishes » Desi Pumpkin Bean Burger

    Desi Pumpkin Bean Burger

    Created on September 7th, 2019 · Last updated on April 14th, 2022 · 13 Comments

    Diabetes Diet FriendlyHeart HealthyVeganDesi (Indian, Pakistani)
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray
    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray
    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray
    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray

    Medically reviewed by Shahzadi Devje, Registered Dietitian (RD) & Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)

    Just in time for Fall, these easy and healthy Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers are an excellent alternative to store-bought vegan burgers. Kidney beans, pumpkin, and oats infused with curry powder and cumin, to create a healthy ethnic recipe - that'll knock your socks off! Served on a bed of alfalfa microgreens and topped with creamy guacamole. Just tuck in! 

    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray

    It's not only during the Summer season that our family craves burgers. And of course, being a plant-focused family - we're always on the hunt for healthy and tasty recipe ideas.

    Fair to say, these motivations fuel my activities in the Desi~licious test kitchen, which I'd say, in most cases, lead to creations with an Eastern and Western fusion.

    This Desi Pumpkin Bean Burger is the ultimate of healthy eating - with buckets loads of flavour. Plus, it's satisfying!

    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray

    This is one of those recipes where you think that looks too complicated! Honestly, that isn't true.  It's a matter of throwing everything in, making a patty and "Bob's your uncle!" These bean burgers are easy to pull off, 100% vegan, and can also be served gluten-free (minus the wheat buns!).

    I'd say they're the perfect choice for meatless Mondays.

    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray

    Is A Vegan Burger Healthy?

    Now that depends on a whole host of factors...

    If you're considering a processed vegan burger, it's worthwhile to check the ingredients list and the nutrition facts label. You want to look for a short ingredient list - with wholesome ingredients - versus names of ingredients you can't pronounce.

    Store-bought vegan burgers are typically made with beans, lentils, vegetables, and whole grains. Be wary, though, as some are laden with calories, sodium (salt) and preservatives.

    It isn't as easy when you're eating out, though. It's hard to know the make-up of your vegan burger, but it doesn't hurt to talk to the chef and inquire about the ingredients.

    In my opinion, your best bet is to cook at home - using nourishing and wholesome ingredients. That way, you have greater control and can even double up the recipe - and freeze for another day.

    This creation is hearty, wholesome, and 100% yummy! Not to mention, the impressive nutrient profile - bursting with fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, make this pumpkin bean burger recipe diabetes-friendly and heart-healthy too.

    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray

    Learn how to buy, store and use pumpkin in this guide.

    How To Make Desi Pumpkin Bean Burger - Step By Step

    Step by step preparation images of how to make desi pumpkin bean burgers
    1. Start by mashing the kidney beans. I like to keep the bean burgers rustic and do this manually (Image 1).
    2. Now add the oat flour, pumpkin puree, spring onions, salt and spices (Images 2-3).
    3. Using your hands, create five patties (Image 4). Note, the mixture will be sticky.
    4. Place the patties in the freezer for 20 minutes. This will prevent the bean burger from falling apart. After removing from the freezer, shape the patties to resemble a neater burger shape (Image 5).
    5. In a medium pan, heat the oil and fry the burgers. You will need to do this in 2 batches (Image 6).
    6. To prepare the guacamole, mash the avocados using a fork. Add the cilantro, lemon juice, and chilli flakes and mix well (Images 7-8). Assemble your burger with your favourite add-ins or serve Buddha bowl style. We adore the crunch of alfalfa microgreens, which pair perfectly with all the flavours in this recipe.

    Top Tips For Making Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers

    • These burgers do benefit from being dressed with the chilli avocado mash. The creaminess and taste combo go wonderfully well
    • If using real pumpkin, the patties will be stickier. You may want to reduce the amount of pumpkin
    • Before mashing the kidney beans, rinse and remove any excess water. Ideally, you want them to be somewhat dry
    • Keep the kidney beans chunky by mashing with a hand masher - this will help to bind the ingredients
    • For best results, freeze the burger patties for at least 20 minutes before frying
    • Fry from frozen to ensure they keep their shape and are easier to handle
    • Start to fry the burgers on medium-high heat. Once tossed, reduce to medium heat, to ensure they are cooked through
    • Avoid fiddling with the patties too much when they're in the pan. You don't want to disturb their shape
    • Use a flat spatula when tossing and turning your bean burger in the pan. Again, this will help to keep their shape intact
    • Best served hot

    More Vegan Recipes You May Like

    • Baingan Bharta (Indian Eggplant)
    • Chickpea Kale Curry Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
    • Superfood Vegetarian Chili

    What's the best vegan bean burger you've ever had? Have you tried my Desi Pumpkin Bean Burger before? Let me know in the comments below!

    If you try this recipe, would love to hear from you! Leave a comment, rate it, or share a photo and hashtag with #desiliciousrd on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!  Can’t wait to see your photos.

    Desi~liciously Yours,

    Desi Pumpkin Bean Burger

    Author Shahzadi Devje
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin
    Just in time for Fall, these easy and healthy Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers are an excellent alternative to store bought vegan burgers. Kidney beans, pumpkin and oats infused with curry powder and cumin, to create a healthy ethnic recipe - that'll knock your socks off! Served on a bed of alfalfa microgreens and topped with creamy guacamole. Just tuck in! 
    Prep Time20 mins
    Cook Time15 mins
    Freeze time20 mins
    Total Time55 mins
    Course: Main
    Cuisine Desi, Indian, South Asian
    Servings: 5 people
    Two Desi Pumpkin Bean Burgers on a bed of alfalfa microgreens topped with guacamole in burger buns on a black tray

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup kidney beans canned, washed and thoroughly drained
    • ⅔ cup oat flour I use steel cut oats and process these to create flour
    • 1 cup pumpkin puree canned
    • 2 spring onion washed, finely chopped
    • 1 tsp salt sea salt
    • 1 tsp curry powder
    • 1 tsp cumin powder
    • 3 tbsp olive oil for frying 5 patties

    Guacamole

    • 2 avocados medium, ripe, peeled and pitted
    • ½ cup cilantro fresh, washed and finely chopped
    • ½ lemon fresh, juice
    • ¼ tsp chilli flakes adjust to your taste

    Instructions

    • In a medium bowl, mash the kidney beans using a hand masher. You want to keep them rustic and not completely mashed and creamy.
    • Add the oats, pumpkin puree, spring onions, salt, curry powder and cumin
    • Mix the patty ingredients well and form into five large patties
    • In a medium frying pan, add 2 tbsp of olive oil and fry three patties on medium-high heat. Once golden brown, toss the patties and fry the other side on medium heat. Remove from the pan. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil and repeat the process to fry the remaining two patties.

    Guacamole

    • In a medium bowl, mash the avocado using a fork
    • Combine the cilantro, lemon juice and chilli. Mix well
    • Dress your patties with a dollop of the chilli avocado mash and add your favorite add-ins to create your burger. You can also serve with quinoa - Buddha bowl style

    Notes

    • These burgers do benefit from being dressed with the chilli avocado mash. The creaminess and taste combo go wonderfully well
    • If using real pumpkin, the patties will be stickier. You may want to reduce the amount of pumpkin
    • Before mashing the kidney beans, rinse and remove any excess water. Ideally, you want them to be somewhat dry
    • Keep the kidney beans chunky by mashing by hand - this will help to bind the ingredients
    • For best results, freeze the burger patties for at least 20 minutes before frying
    • Fry from frozen to ensure they keep their shape and are easier to handle
    • Start to fry the burgers on medium-high heat. Once tossed, reduce to medium heat, to ensure they are cook through
    • Avoid fiddling with the patties too much when they're in the pan. You don't want to disturb their shape
    • Use a flat spatula when tossing and turning your bean burger in the pan. Again, this will help to keep their shape in tact
    • Best served hot
    Nutrition Facts
    Desi Pumpkin Bean Burger
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 337 Calories from Fat 198
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 22g34%
    Saturated Fat 3g15%
    Sodium 481mg20%
    Potassium 737mg21%
    Carbohydrates 31g10%
    Fiber 11g44%
    Sugar 3g3%
    Protein 8g16%
    Vitamin A 7929IU159%
    Vitamin C 18mg22%
    Calcium 51mg5%
    Iron 3mg17%
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Please note the nutritional analysis values are estimates and suggestions. This nutrition facts table does not know your life - your body, including your hunger and satiety cues, change daily. It's okay to eat more or less. Say no to food guilt and instead embrace mindful eating.

    Desiliciousrd Shahzadi Devje chopping vegetables in her kitchen
    Shahzadi Devje

    Shahzadi is an award-winning registered dietitian (RD) regulated by the College of Dietitians of Ontario and certified diabetes educator (CDE), approved by the Canadian Diabetes Educator Certification Board. A YouTuber and notorious foodie, she's dedicated to helping you end your cooking wars, transform your health, and be the best version of yourself! Shahzadi is an on-air nutrition expert for CTV Your Morning and a regular contributor for Global News and other national media outlets.

    StovetopFallBeans, Oats, Pumpkin
    « Baingan Bharta (Indian Eggplant)
    Millennial Menu: 15 Easy and Healthy Recipes You Wish You Had Known About Sooner »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Charlene Pors says

      October 15, 2016 at 1:31 am

      I love that you added pumpkin to this burger! It looks delicious, now I know what you do with my leftover pumpkin! Yum, thanks for this!

      Reply
    2. Michelle Jaelin RD says

      October 14, 2016 at 11:16 pm

      I will try this on my carnivore family as well. Heehee, sneaky and delicious vegetarian meals 😉

      Reply
    3. Nazima says

      October 14, 2016 at 10:33 pm

      I've never tried pumpkin in a savoury recipe - this looks delicious!

      Reply
    4. Jamie @ Dishing Out Health says

      October 14, 2016 at 3:54 pm

      Sounds great! I love incorporating pumpkin into savory recipes!

      Reply
    5. Katie Cavuto says

      October 14, 2016 at 1:38 pm

      This is such a fun idea, and perfect for fall -- love it!

      Reply
    6. Bridget says

      October 14, 2016 at 4:28 am

      I can't believe this is the first time you've made veggie burgers--they look SO perfect! A great way to use pumpkin in a savory dish...

      Reply
    7. Marie says

      October 14, 2016 at 2:03 am

      I never thought about using pumpkin into a veggie burger, but it looks and sounds delicious!

      Reply
    8. Sarah @ BucketListTummy says

      October 14, 2016 at 1:19 am

      I love this idea! These sound and look SO AMAZING!

      Reply
    9. Lauren O'Connor says

      October 14, 2016 at 1:15 am

      Love how you incorporated pumpkin into these veggie burgers. It looks and sounds so delicious!!

      Reply
    10. Jessica @ Nutritioulicious says

      October 13, 2016 at 11:42 pm

      I love this seasonal twist on veggie burgers!

      Reply
    11. Kaleigh @ Lively Table says

      October 13, 2016 at 10:50 pm

      Sounds like a great twist on a veggie burger, especially for fall!

      Reply
    12. Emily Holdorf says

      October 13, 2016 at 9:20 pm

      What an innovative way to incorporate pumpkin! I love seeing different uses for it 🙂

      Reply
    13. Amy says

      October 13, 2016 at 9:17 pm

      Love this idea!

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I’m Shahzadi, registered dietitian, TV show nutrition expert & mompreneur. I show busy health seekers how to eat for health, nourish mindfully and thrive, while enjoying ethnic cuisines.

    More about me →

    Meal Plans

    • 1-Week Whole Food Vegan Meal Plan

      USD $42.99
      Add to cart

    • lettuce leaves filled with baingan bharta (Indian eggplant recipe) with a bowl of baingan bharta in the center.

      14-Day South Asian Meal Plan

      USD $62.99
      Add to cart

    GRAB THE ULTIMATE MEAL PREP GUIDE

    With 25 Sumptuous Whole Food Recipes

    SEND IT TO ME!

    Featured Recipes

    • Quinoa Badam Kheer
    • Kesar Mango Chia Phirni (Pudding)
    • Orange-Scented Dates And Yogurt Parfaits
    • Oat Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

    THE ULTIMATE SUNDAY MEAL PREP MEAL PLAN

    Want to eat healthy but have literally no time to cook every night? Prepare 5 days of tasty meals and snacks in roughly 2 hours - all done and dusted on Sunday!

    GET IT FOR FREE!

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    • MEET SHAHZADI
    • WORK WITH SHAHZADI
    • RECIPES
    • BLOG
    • VIDEOS
    • SHOP
    • MEDIA & BRANDS
    • CONTACT
    SOCIAL MEDIA
    JOIN MY INNER CIRCLE

    YOUR HEALTHY JOURNEY STARTS HERE. SIGN UP TO RECEIVE FREE NUTRITION TIPS AND DELICIOUS RECIPES TO HELP YOU BE ON TOP OF YOUR GAME.

    All Right Reserved · The information found on this site is not intended for diagnosis or medical treatment and any health-related questions should be directed to your Healthcare team · Privacy Policy · Terms & Conditions· Accessibility Statement

    Copyright ©2022 · DESI~LICIOUS RD INC