Black Bean Burger Recipe

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 (400g) cans black beans, drained and rinsed</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium red onion, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 red bell pepper, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">90g panko breadcrumbs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 large eggs, beaten</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">40g rolled oats</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for cooking</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp soy sauce</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp cumin</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp smoked paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp chili powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30g fresh coriander, chopped (or parsley)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">½ tsp black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">6 burger buns</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Toppings: sliced cheese, lettuce, tomato, avocado, pickles, condiments</li></ul>

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Food processor</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large baking sheet</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large mixing bowl</li></ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the drained and rinsed black beans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture, which prevents mushy burgers. Bake the beans for 10-12 minutes until slightly dried out but not crispy. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>While the beans are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The caramelization develops deeper flavors in your burgers. Set aside to cool.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Transfer about two-thirds of the baked beans to a food processor and pulse several times until roughly chopped but not completely pureed. You want some texture remaining – this creates the perfect burger consistency with both structure and visible bean pieces.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>In a large mixing bowl, combine the processed beans, whole beans, cooked vegetables, beaten eggs, panko breadcrumbs, oats, remaining olive oil, soy sauce, and all seasonings. Mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be slightly wet but hold together when formed into a patty. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a touch more olive oil.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>With lightly dampened hands (to prevent sticking), divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 2cm thick. Press firmly to ensure they hold together, and create a slight indent in the center with your thumb – this prevents the burgers from doming as they cook.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Arrange the formed patties on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This resting period is essential as it allows the ingredients to bind together and flavors to develop.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Brush the chilled patties lightly with olive oil on both sides. Bake for 20-25 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through, until the burgers are firm and crisp on the outside. Look for a deep golden brown color with a lightly crisp exterior – this contrast with the tender interior creates the perfect texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>If desired, add sliced cheese on top of each patty during the last 2 minutes of baking to melt. Meanwhile, lightly toast your burger buns. Assemble your burgers with your favorite toppings and condiments. The patties will firm up slightly as they cool, so allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture.</li></ol>