Hearty Chipotle Black Bean Burgers

Indulge in these flavorful chipotle black bean burgers, packed with a smoky kick and a hearty texture that’s perfect for any casual gathering or family dinner. These burgers are not only delicious but also incredibly healthy, making them a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.

Ingredients You Will Need

  • 3 cups cooked black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • ⅓ cup grated yellow onion
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo (diced)
  • 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tamari
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  • Extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing)
  • Cooking spray (if grilling)
  • Hamburger buns (for serving)
  • Desired fixings (for serving)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the beans, onion, garlic, chipotles, adobo sauce, tamari, balsamic vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher to mash until the mixture holds together but still has some visible chunks of black beans. Add the egg and use a spatula to fold until combined. Then, fold in the panko.
  2. Use your hands to form the mixture into 6 patties. The mixture should be cohesive and a little wet. If it’s too wet to handle, chill in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up or mash your beans a little bit more.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Spicy: Add an extra chipotle pepper for a spicier burger.

Cheesy: Top each patty with a slice of cheddar before grilling for a melty, gooey texture.

Vegan: Replace the egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and use chickpea flour instead of panko bread crumbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before forming into patties.

Q: How do I keep the burgers from falling apart during cooking?
A: If your mixture is too wet, chill it in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up or mash the beans a bit more to achieve a better texture.

Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
A: While panko provides a lighter texture, you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs. Just ensure they are finely ground and add an extra tablespoon for volume.

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