Black Bean Burgers

Black Bean Burgers

Makes 6 burgers

3/4 cup Panko (bread crumbs)

3 Tbsp. plus 2 tsp. olive oil, divided

2 (15 oz.) cans black beans, drained, rinsed, and divided

2 large eggs

1tsp. ground cumin

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 red bell pepper

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, minced

1 shallot, minced

Place medium skillet over medium-high heat.  combine panko with 2 tsp. of the olive oil and mix with a fork to blend. Add mixture to skillet and toast panko, stirring frequently, until golden brown.  Remove from the heat and let cool to room temp.

Place 2 1/2 cups of the beans in a large bowl and mash with a potato masher or a fork until mostly smooth.  In a separate bowl, combine eggs, 1 T. of the oil, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper.  Wisk to blend. Add the egg mixture to the panko then add the bell pepper, remaining 1/2 cup of beans, cilantro, and shallot to the bowl and mix into the mashed beans.  Stir until evenly combined.

Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions, about 1/2 c. each.  Lightly pack into 1-inch thick patties. (At this point the patties can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking)  Heat 1 Tbsp oil in skillet over medium heat until simmering.  Carefully lay half of the patties in the skillet and cook until well browned on both sides (about 8-10 minutes).  Repeat with the rest of the patties. 

Nutritional Info: (for the patties only!)

Calories: 186 calories per patty

Fat: 3 grams

Carbs: 31 grams

Protein: 10 grams

*Note: Serve these with Sandwich Thins (you can find them near the buns at the store) which are only 100 calories.  Also, These are really good with a little fat free sour cream and some low fat cheese and some yummy leafy greens!