Black Bean Cakes

Crispy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, these Black Bean Cakes are a delightful vegetarian option that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Made with protein-rich black beans, zesty lime juice, vibrant red bell pepper, and a savory blend of smoked paprika and cumin, these patties are pan-fried to perfection for a golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to a tender, spiced interior. Ideal as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course, these black bean cakes pair beautifully with sour cream, salsa, or creamy avocado. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a quick pan-sear, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Whether you're catering to plant-based eaters or just looking to up your veggie game, these black bean cakes are sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 84/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 0.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cups Red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 Green onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoons Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoons Smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Lime juice
• 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until they form a chunky paste. Leave some whole beans for texture.

Step 2

Add the panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, green onion, garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cilantro, lime juice, flour, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir until well combined.

Step 3

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into small patties, about 2.5 inches in diameter.

Step 4

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 5

Working in batches, cook the black bean cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil to the pan as needed for subsequent batches.

Step 6

Transfer the cooked cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 7

Serve warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream, avocado slices, or your favorite salsa.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	588.1 grams (588.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1061

Total Fat 55.70g	71%
Saturated Fat 7.90g	40%
Polyunsaturated Fat 33.60g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2224mg	97%
Total Carbohydrate 114.40g	42%
Dietary Fiber 29.30g	105%
Total Sugars 3.00g
Protein 34.40g	69%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 214mg	16%
Iron 12mg	64%
Potassium 1206mg	26%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.7%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 41.7%