Chili Lime Black Bean Burgers

If you are using dried beans, cover 2/3 cups of them with water and soak overnight. The next morning, strain and rinse beans. Place them in a saucepan and cover them with fresh water, add in the chopped onion. Bring to a boil, cover the pot, reduce heat, and simmer for about 1 hour until tender. Strain off the water and let the beans cool. If using canned, strain and rinse the beans.

In the bowl of a food processor with a blade attachment, grind the hamburger bun until finely ground into bread crumbs. Pour crumbs into a small bowl and set aside.

In the same food processor bowl, add in the garlic cloves and cilantro. Pulse a few times until minced. Add in the beans and puree until smooth. Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in the chili powder, lime zest and bread crumbs. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper. (Taste mixture to make sure seasonings are to your preference before adding in the egg). Add in the egg and mix until incorporated. Divide mixture into 4 equal pieces and shape into round patties.

In a grill pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Grill the patties on one side, for about 3-4 minutes until brown. Flip over and add cheese. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until cheese has melted.

Serve patties on hamburger buns with your favorite burger toppings.

Serves 4.