⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 2 servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

🍽 Ingredients

• 1 can Black beans (15-ounce can)
• 1/2 cup Fresh basil
• 1/4 cup Red onion
• 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• to taste Salt and pepper

📖 Instructions

1. First things first, let's get those beans ready. Rinse 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans thoroughly under cold water. Drain them well – nobody likes soggy burgers! Then, use a fork or potato masher to lightly mash about half the beans. Leave the rest mostly whole for some nice texture. Don't over-mash; you want some body to your burger.
2. Next, finely chop about 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves. If you're using a different herb, now's the time to chop it up. I always wash my herbs super well, you never know what little critters might be hiding!
3. In a large bowl, combine the mashed and whole black beans with that lovely chopped basil. Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion, 1/4 cup bread crumbs (I like panko for extra crunch!), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Season generously with salt and pepper—I usually go for a good pinch of each.
4. Now for the fun part: mixing! Use your hands to gently mix everything together until it's evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix – it might make the burgers tough. The mixture should be moist but hold its shape.
5. If you're using a burger press, this is where it comes in handy. Press the bean mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. If not, just gently shape the mixture into patties with your hands. Aim for even patties for even cooking.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is when I usually turn on some music. Cooking should be a good time!
7. Carefully place the bean burgers in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are heated through and slightly browned. You'll know they're ready when they're firm to the touch.
8. While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast your buns. This adds a nice touch. Now, grab your favorite burger toppings—lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, cheese – whatever floats your boat!
9. Once the burgers are cooked, place them on the toasted buns and add your toppings. Enjoy your delicious, healthy, and totally satisfying Basil and Black Bean Burgers!

📝 Notes

• For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lime juice to the bean mixture.
• Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference.
• If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to thicken it up.
• These burgers are also great served on salad!