Black Bean Burgers

adapted from Annie's Eats.

Yield: 6 burgers

¾ cup panko
2 (15 oz.) cans black beans, drained and rinsed, divided
2 large eggs
1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and finely diced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, minced
1 green onion, minced

Seasonings to taste

TOTAL PointsPlus: 4/each

Place a medium skillet over medium-high heat.  Toast the panko, stirring frequently, until light golden brown.  Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature.

Place 2½ cups of the beans in a large bowl and mash with a potato masher or a fork until mostly smooth.  Add the egg mixture, seasonings, toasted panko, the remaining ½ cup beans, bell pepper, cilantro and green onion to the bowl with the mashed beans.  Stir together until evenly combined.

Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions, about ½ cup each.  Lightly pack into 1-inch thick patties.  (At this point the patties can be covered tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.)  

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.  Carefully lay patties in the skillet and cook until well browned on both sides, about 8-10 minutes total.  Serve warm.