Smoky Black Bean Burgers

Ingredients

• 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil, for cooking
• 4 burger buns
• 4 leaves lettuce, sliced tomato, and condiments, for serving

Instructions

1. Spread the drained black beans on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat them very dry for a couple of minutes; excess moisture is the main reason bean burgers fall apart.
2. Place the dried beans in a large bowl and mash with a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth, leaving about a quarter of the beans in small recognizable chunks for texture.
3. Add the oats, diced onion, egg, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mashed beans. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until everything is evenly combined into a cohesive, slightly tacky mixture.
4. Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes at room temperature; the oats will absorb moisture and help the patties bind together firmly.
5. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 3/4 cup each) and shape each into a firm, compact patty about 3/4 inch thick and 4 inches wide. Press each patty firmly between your palms to eliminate any loose cracks at the edges.
6. Heat the oil in a 10-inch nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
7. Carefully place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between them, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
8. Using a wide spatula, flip each patty in one confident motion and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes on the second side, until equally browned and the patty feels firm (not squishy) when pressed gently in the center.
9. Transfer the patties to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes; they will firm up slightly more as they cool, making them easier to handle.
10. Toast the burger buns lightly if desired, then assemble with lettuce, tomato, the black bean patty, and your favorite condiments.

Nutrition

Calories	340
Protein	15.0 g
Fat	9.0 g
Carbs	52.0 g
Fiber	12.0 g
Sodium	710 mg

Nutrition information is an estimate per serving and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice.