Quinoa and Vegetable Burgers With Ginger

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Place the cooked quinoa in a large bowl.

2. Step 2

   Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat in a heavy skillet and add the sliced shiitakes in one layer. Cook, without stirring, for 1 minute, and then stir until the mushrooms are beginning to soften. Add the ginger, garlic and a generous pinch of salt and continue to cook for another minute. Remove from the heat and add to the bowl with the quinoa. Stir in the red pepper, cilantro and arugula.

3. Step 3

   In a food processor fitted with the steel blade, or in a bowl using a fork or a potato masher, purée the white beans with the lime juice and, if using, the egg. Add to the quinoa mixture and stir everything together. Season to taste with soy sauce or salt and pepper.

4. Step 4

   Begin heating a heavy ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Seasoned cast iron is good, and so is a heavy nonstick pan that can go into the oven. Moisten your hands lightly and shape 4 large or 6 smaller patties. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan and, working in batches if necessary, cook the patties for 2 minutes on one side, until nicely browned. Carefully turn over and place in the oven. Bake 10 to 15 minutes, until the patties are lightly browned and don’t fall apart. Remove from the heat and serve, with or without buns, ketchup and the works.