📖 Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This little step gets the oven ready, ensuring your breadcrumbs get that perfect toast, adding a nutty depth to the burgers.
2. Thoroughly rinse the canned black beans under cold water. This removes excess starch, which can make the burgers gummy. Drain well and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, mash about half of the black beans with a fork or potato masher. Leave the other half whole for a better texture. It's a textural thing—trust me, it makes a difference.
4. In a food processor, combine the onion, garlic, and cilantro. Pulse until finely chopped. These aromatic wonders form the flavor base of your burgers.
5. Add the pulsed mixture to the mashed and whole black beans. Stir in the breadcrumbs, egg (or flaxseed egg for vegan option), cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined. Don't be shy; get in there and make sure it's all evenly distributed.
6. Take about 1/2 cup of the mixture and form it into a patty. Gently flatten it to your desired thickness, usually about 1/2 inch. Repeat with the remaining mixture. This recipe should yield about 4-6 patties, depending on size.
7. Place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil to help them crisp up nicely.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the burgers are firm and lightly browned. Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary.
9. While the burgers are baking, prepare your toppings and buns. I like toasted whole wheat buns with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a spicy chipotle mayo, but feel free to get creative!
10. Once the burgers are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve immediately on your prepared buns with your favorite toppings. Enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors and textures!
11. For an alternative cooking method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil and pan-fry the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and heated through. This method gives a nice crispy exterior, perfect for those who love a good sear.
12. If you find the mixture too wet, add more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time, until the consistency is right. If it's too dry, a splash of water or a bit more mashed black beans can help.
13. Before baking, chill the formed patties in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and reduces the chance of them falling apart during cooking. Patience is key here!
14. These black bean burgers are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with various sides. Try serving them with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or even a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.