Ingredients
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon Thai chili sauce or hot sauce
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste
- In a medium bowl, mash black beans with a fork until thick and pasty.
- In a food processor, finely chop bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Then stir into mashed beans.
- In a small bowl, stir together egg, chili powder, cumin, and chili sauce.
- Stir the egg mixture into the mashed beans. Mix in breadcrumbs until the mixture is sticky and holds together. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Divide mixture into four patties. Place patties on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper, and chill for 30 minutes to improve their handling.
- Preheat grill for high heat, or preheat a non-stick skillet to medium heat. If grilling, brush a light layer of oil on the grill grate.
- Grill patties for about 8 minutes on each side, or fry them in the skillet for about 4 minutes on each side, until nicely browned.
- For the mango salsa, in a separate bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice. Add salt to taste.
- Serve each black bean burger with a generous helping of mango salsa.
Q1: Can I use fresh black beans instead of canned black beans for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can definitely use fresh black beans instead of canned black beans. Just make sure to cook the fresh black beans until they are soft and then mash them before proceeding with the recipe.
Q2: Can I prepare the black bean burger mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for later use?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the black bean burger mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just make sure to cover the mixture tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When ready to use, shape the chilled mixture into patties and proceed with grilling or frying as per the recipe instructions.
Q3: Is there a recommended alternative for the Thai chili sauce or hot sauce if I don't have it on hand?
A3: If you don't have Thai chili sauce or hot sauce, you can substitute with a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to add the desired level of heat to the black bean burger mixture. Adjust the amount according to your personal preference for spiciness.