To make Simple Cole Slaw, mix 4 cups shredded cabbage, 1 coarsely grated medium carrot, 1/4 small thinly sliced red onion, 6 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably plant-based), 4 teaspoons cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon celery seeds, and generous sprinkling of salt and pepper.
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 cans (15-16 oz each) pinto beans, drained, liquid reserved, 1/2 left whole, 1/2 fork-mashed
- 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes, optional
- Simple Cole Slaw (see note above) and barbecue sauce
- 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, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, pepper, garlic, and pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Stir in chia mixture with a fork until mixture holds together. Taste mixture and adjust seasonings, including salt, if necessary. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and flatten into 4-inch patties. Following Stovetop or Grill Method, cook burgers. While burgers cook, make Simple Cole Slaw. Spread buns with barbecue sauce, top with cole slaw, and serve.
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