Step 1

Place the pearled barley and water into a medium-sized saucepan. Cover, bring to a boil, then simmer, uncovered, for about 45 minutes. It should be completely cooked through but still firm to the bite.

Step 2

Preheat oven to 400.

Step 3

Toss the sweet potato in 2 tablespoons of the oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and cook for about 20 minutes, or until it starts developing a little color around the edges. Stir halfway through the bake time.

Step 4

On a separate baking sheet, place the beans in a single layer. Bake for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Step 5

Allow all of the ingredients to cool and place into a large prep bowl.

Step 6

Add the vegan shreds and stir to combine.

Step 7

In a medium-sized skillet (I used cast iron), warm the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and allow to soften and slightly caramelize for several minutes.

Step 8

Add in the garlic and allow to soften for a few minutes more. Add the the prep bowl and stir.

Step 9

Add the vegan Worcestershire, steak seasoning and liquid smoke to the bowl, stir, then add in the panko.

Step 10

Add 3/4 cup of JUST Egg and mix thoroughly.

Step 11

Test the mixture by rolling a small portion into a ball. If it holds together well, proceed to the next step. If the mixture is too dry or crumbly, gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of JUST Egg until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 12

Form the mixture into 10-12 patties and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 13

If freezing, place patties onto a silpat-lined baking sheet and allow to completely freeze, then transfer to a ziploc or freezer-safe container.

Step 14

To cook straight from the refrigerator, add some oil to a hot skillet and add the desired number of patties. Cover and allow to cook for a few minutes on each side or until golden.

Step 15

If using frozen patties, allow them to come to room temp before cooking.

Step 16

Combine all of the special sauce ingredients beforehand or when ready to serve.

Step 17

Toast the buns in some melted vegan butter until crisp and golden.

Step 18

Transfer the patties to the toasted buns and serve with the special sauce or your favorite fixings.