Step 1

Use a fork to mash the beans in a large mixing bowl so they're mushy but not totally smooth; there should still be some whole beans in the mixture.

Step 2

Add the chickpea flour, tomato paste, applesauce, chili powder, tamari, vinegar, lime juice, salt and pepper, stirring to incorporate. Taste, and add more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 3

Heat a skillet with 1/2 inch of the oil over medium heat, then place a generous 1/3 cup of the mixture in the center of the pan. Carefully press it into a round, pressing until the patty is about 3/4 inch thick. Repeat to form 3 or 4 burgers in the pan, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until browned and crisp on both sides, 1 to 2 minutes per side, flipping as needed so they cook evenly.

Step 4

Transfer the cooked burgers to a plate, sprinkle lightly with more salt, if desired, and cover loosely to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Step 5

Serve on buns, with cheese, slices of tomato and onion, pickles, mustard and/or ketchup, if desired.