Black Bean Burgers

I have never been a real fan of beans. I mean, really, there is nothing terribly exciting about a bean. They are virtually flavorless....unless 'yuck' is a flavor.

I avoided beans for one reason. Other stuff tasted better. I never realized (or wanted to) that beans may not look or taste all that wonderful alone, but they can be coupled with other flavors and magic is made. Not only that, but beans have the power to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Let's not forget the fiber!

So, when we made the transition and started incorporating more beans into our diets, the world of nutrition really started opening up. Food became more interesting - do you know how many types of beans there are? Beans are also an excellent meat replacement....y'know....if you're looking for one.

Enough chatting....time for a recipe!

Beans. Try them - you'll be just as surprised as I was!

Black Bean Burgers from Ultimate Vegetarian Global Cafe Cookbook
by: Denise

Makes 10 (1/3) cup burgers

Olive Oil or water to cook onion
1 Med. onion, finely chopped
3-4 cloves garlic minced
(2) 15 oz Cans black beans, drained OR 3 cups cooked black beans
1 1/2 cup soft breadcrumbs of more if needed (we make our own)
1 tsp chili powder or substitute
1/2 tsp.ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt

Cook onion until tender in olive oil or water in non-stick pan.

Mash together beans, bread crumbs, chili powder, cumin and salt.

Stir in cooked onion and garlic, mix well. (If too moist, add more bread crumbs).

Very lightly coat a non-stick pan with coconut oil, then drop about 1/3 cup portions into skillet and flatten into burgers. Brown on both sides.

Serve with spelt bread buns, sliced tomato, onion or lettuce. Add parmesan cheese if desired... or just serve as you like!

Enjoy!