Black Bean Burgers

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
• 4 hamburger buns
• Optional toppings: avocado, lettuce, tomato, pickled jalapeños, chipotle mayo

Instructions

1. Add black beans to a large mixing bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher until mostly broken down but still slightly chunky for texture.
2. Add the panko breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, cilantro, and soy sauce to the mashed beans. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about 3/4 inch thick. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs one tablespoon at a time. Refrigerate patties for 10 minutes to help them firm up.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the patties.
5. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side without moving them, until a dark golden-brown crust forms and the patties are heated through.
6. Toast the hamburger buns in the same pan or under a broiler until lightly golden.
7. Assemble burgers with your choice of toppings and serve immediately.