BBQ Black Bean Burgers

Step 1

Rinse the black beans, then lay them flat on a towel to dry while you prep the other ingredients. (For a quicker way to dry the beans; use a tea towel or paper towels and gently squeeze the beans) They should be at least 80% drier than they were after rinsing.

Step 2

Next grate and dry the carrot. Dry the grated carrot by pressing it between a few paper towels. They should be dry to the touch after pressing. You may need to repeat this step 1-2 times.

Step 3

Add the the beans to a large bowl (reserving 1/4 cup). Mash the beans with a potato masher or fork. The beans should be crumbly/pasty.

Step 4

Add the remaining ingredients to the bowl, including the reserved beans. Using a spoon, mix all the ingredients together. Finish mixing with your hands to completely combine everything. At this point you can taste the bean mix and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 5

Divide the bean mix into 8 even portions. Roll each portion into a ball. Carefully flatten each bean ball using your hands.

Step 6

To shape, cup your hands around the sides of the flattened patty and gently press it back into a circle with the sides of your hand and pinky. Flatten the patty, again, to an even thickness . Flip it over and shape the sides again, if needed. Repeat with each patty until they are all formed.

Step 7

Lightly oil to your pan or grill and heat over medium-high. Once heated, carefully place the patties down one at a time. Cook for 10 min on each side, or until browned. (For an oil free option, these can be baked at 400º in the oven. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes on each side.).

Step 8

Top each burger with a generous amount of BBQ sauce, red onion and mashed avocado sprinkled with all-seasons salt.