Really Simple Bean Burgers (A Root Formula)

Cook time: 10 mins

Total time: 10 mins

Yield: 6 Burgers

*If you don’t have chia seeds or prefer using eggs, you can substitute 2 large eggs for the chia seeds and bean liquid.

*When making these burgers, stick with small beans such as black beans, pinto beans, black-eyed peas, or small white beans, such as navy.

2 tablespoons chia seeds*
2 cans (15-16oz each) Beans*, drained, liquid reserved, 1/2 left whole, 1/2 fork-mashed
1 cup dry breadcrumbs
Extra Flavorings, optional
1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes, optional
Toppings
6 hamburger buns

Stir chia seeds into 2/3 cup of the reserved bean liquid in a small bowl; let sit for a few minutes until chia seeds start to thicken the liquid.
Meanwhile, place beans, breadcrumbs, Extra Flavorings, if using, pepper, garlic, and pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Stir in chia mixture with a fork until mixture holds together without being wet. Taste mixture and adjust seasonings, including salt to taste. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and flatten into 4-inch patties. Following Stovetop or Grill Method, cook burgers. Serve with buns and desired Toppings.
Stovetop Method: Heat 2 tablespoons olive or canola oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook, turning only once, until a crisp brown crust forms on both sides, 8 to 10 minutes total.
Grill Method: Heat all burners of a gas grill on high. Lightly brush burger tops with oil. Place burgers, oiled side down on hot rack, cover and grill until spotty brown, about 3 minutes. Lightly brush tops with oil and turn. Cover and continue to grill until burgers are spotty brown on remaining side, about 3 minutes longer.