Black Bean Burgers

I enjoy a challenge especially when it comes from a fellow librarian.  Sometime we discuss food because we all have exacting requirements.  I keep kosher, JL eats vegetarian (including milk and eggs), DE eats a strict vegan diet, and DW eats lots of meat and has no idea what this all means. Since I eat mostly vegetarian, I am always looking for new taste ideas.  One colleague suggested   trying black bean burgers.  Since he didn't know the exact recipe, I looked on line and found some ideas.

Here is approximately what I did.  I did not precisely measure all the spices.

1/2 cup dry black beans
1 cup or more water
Soak the beans in the water for at least 3 hours, then drain and wash. The beans will expand to about twice their original size.

1 small onion
1 carrot
chop the onion, carrot and beans.

1 teaspoon chilli powder
1/2 cup matzah meal
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon hot sauce
dash of cumin
2 teaspoons hummus
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
water as needed

Mix in a bowl. You could change the spices to suit your taste.  These amounts are for a mild result. Add water as needed to get a smooth mix.  Let sit in the refrigerator for several hours to allow the flavors to mix.

Shape into patties and bake (350 degrees) at least 30 minutes.  If not brown enough, fry for 1-2 minutes per side. Above is a picture with the burger on a homemade roll with some of the ingredients.

Top the burger with ketchup, hummus or whatever else you want. Sorry to my vegan friends, I had to add an egg, but you could try a substitute.  Since the beans were not pre-cooked, the burger is crunchy.  If you use beans from a can they will be softer.

Enjoy and keep the ideas flowing. [fn 1]




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Notes:

1. Many physicians and health care providers say that a plant based diet is better for cardiovascular health.