Recipe: Broiled Black Bean Cheese Burgers

Whether you're trying to avoid meat for Lent, or you're just looking for a "meatless Monday" meal, these flavorful black bean burgers will hit the spot. They make a great light dinner, or a nice healthy lunch. To cut the carbs, serve in toasted whole wheat pita pockets, instead of buns.

Broiled Black Bean Cheese Burgers

Ingredients:

Black beans. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

1 can (15.5 oz) black beans (or 1 cup of soaked, cooked dry beans), drained
1 large egg, whisked
1/2 cup panko or whole wheat bread crumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped green onion
1/4 cup shredded cheese (your choice)
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp salt
favorite burger toppings and buns

Directions:

• Put the drained black beans in a bowl and smash them up with a fork.
• Add the remaining ingredients and stir until well combined.
• Turn on broiler and grease broiler pan lightly (or cover with tin foil).
• Divide the mixture equally and form patties with hands, patting until as firm as possible.
• Place on broiler pan about 6 inches below heat source and broil until the top gets crusty and browned slightly, then carefully flip and broil again until browned.
• Remove and serve on healthy bread choice with favorite toppings.
• Will make 2 to 4 patties depending on size.