Super YUMMY Black Bean Burgers (and easy, too!)

So the other night it was just my 14 year old son and me having dinner. I asked him what wanted me to make and he said "black bean burgers." For real! I will say that he knows I will make french fries when we have these burgers, but he really does love these. And so do I! They are super healthy and delicious - and they are quick and easy. They come together in about 20 minutes, and half of that is time for the mixture to rest. 

Full disclosure, my youngest son will have nothing to do with these. But that's because he won't let a bean pass his lips. He diligently and stubbornly will pick through an entire bowl of chili to remove the beans one by one... 

So if you are looking for something packed with fiber and protein AND yummy I highly recommend trying these burgers. Not to mention the fact that these cost something like $1 per burger to make. Try it for Meatless Monday!

Easy and Delicious Black Bean Burgers

(adapted from a recipe by Melissa d'Arabian)

Serves 4

• 1 15 oz can black beans, drained
  
• 1/2 cup finely crushed tortilla chips (regular, blue corn or even "nacho")
• 1/3 cup salsa, plus additional for serving (I use Trader Joe's Peach Salsa and it's perfect)
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican blend cheese (or Cheddar or Monterrey Jack)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten - remove 1 tablespoon and reserve
• 1/4 teaspoon each: Black Pepper, garlic powder, onion powder
• 2 teaspoons olive or sunflower oil
• Lowfat sour cream or plain greek yogurt (optional)

1. In a bowl, use a potato masher or fork to smash the bean until chunky, leaving some whole. Stir in crushed chips, salsa, cheese and egg. Set mixture aside for 10 minutes. Stir the mixture and if it seems dry, add the reserved egg.
   
2. Form the mixture into 4 patties. At this point you can either cover them and refrigerate for 30 minutes or even overnight. Personally, I skip the refrigeration step. I know it helps blend the flavors and lets the chips absorb the liquid but I find they are fine if you continue without refrigeration.
3. Heat 1 teaspoon oil a cast iron frying pan (or non-stick) over medium heat. Add patties to pan and fry 4 to 5 minutes on one side, until browned. Add the remaining oil to the pan and flip the patties. Cook on the second side for an additional 4 to 5 minutes. I like to cook them until they have a nice crust on the outside.
4. Serve garnished with sour cream or greek yogurt, and salsa. You can either serve them on a hamburger bun (the way my son likes it) or without a bun (see photo above, my preference). They are also great reheated.