Black Bean Burgers

This is a recipe that is dedicated to my new sisters-in-law, who are both vegetarians and fellow foodies! My husband and I had a pool put in this summer, and my sisters came over often to hang out with us, float in the pool, and barbecue. But I had to come up with some new recipes that were meat-free, healthy, and flavorful- recipes that would appeal to both my herbivore sisters and my carnivore husband. That’s where these black bean burgers come in. They are so hearty and full of delicious spices, you don’t even miss the meat!

*Don’t be fooled the number of ingredients- most of it simply gets thrown into a food processor. 

I like pepper jack cheese on these for a little added spice, but cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey jack would also be great. Or omit the cheese altogether. You can really make these your own with the toppings you choose. I like lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, and a nice spicy mayo, but you can omit or substitute anything you like. You could even omit the bun and have it over salad. The sky’s the limit!

 
Makes 6-8 burgers
 
 
Ingredients:
 
For the burgers:
2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
1/3 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup chopped red bell pepper
¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. coriander
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. black pepper
¼ tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
 
For the sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp. sriracha
1 tbsp. ketchup

 
Roll for the burgers
 
Toppings:
Monterrey Jack or Pepper Jack Slices
Shredded lettuce
Tomato Slices
Red onion slices
Avocado slices
Pickles
Anything you want!

Directions:

1. Combine the ingredients for the burgers in the food processor and puree until ingredients are combined (although it’s totally fine if a few of the beans have not fully blended- adds to the heartiness). Transfer to a bowl and place in the fridge for at least an hour to firm up a bit.

2. Form the mixture into patties. I like to make large burgers, so for me this can make 6 patties. You can easily make them smaller if you’d like and probably make up to 8 patties (or even more sliders!). Heat a skillet to medium heat and spray with cooking spray. Cook the patties (in batches) for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip 1the patties, place a slice of cheese on top of each, and cook for another 3 minutes or until the bottom side has browned and the cheese has started to melt. If you like it extra melty, put a cover on the pan for the

3. Stir together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, and ketchup. Spoon a bit onto the bottom of each bun, then put some lettuce on top of that. Place the place bean burgers over the lettuce, then top with avocado,  onions, and tomato. Slather the top buns with more of the sauce, then place the buns on top.

Super delicious and nutritious. 

 Enjoy!