Vegetarian Cook-Out

Healthy Hump Day Recipe

It's time to break out the propane, charcoal, skewers, and extra-long tongs because grilling season has officially begun! Seth has been dubbed the "Grill Master" in our house and is in all his glory grilling up delicious foods for family and friends. Barbecue chicken, baby back ribs, succulent steaks, and shish kabobs are some of our favorites. It is usually my job to come up with a marinade and Seth's job to grill it to perfection. Are you not a meat lover and are worried about feeling left out? Have no fear! Delicious meatless option are here! I was finally able to perfect a black bean burger recipe that is so tasty, but I'll be honest in saying that it is a bit time consuming. Again, have no fear! The steps are easy, just somewhat tedious and very necessary. In order for a burger to grill correctly, it has to be able to hold its form without falling apart on the grill. Beans and fresh vegetables are the main ingredients in this recipe, and since both contain a lot of liquid, it is essential to dry them out as much as possible before forming into patties.You also want it to have that delicious charred taste making it even more important that the liquid is removed as much as possible so you don't end up biting into a mush patty (been there done that before perfecting this recipe). I promise you, though, if done correctly, these burgers are so savory that you will think the steps were absolutely worth it. Another great part about this recipe is that it is loaded with healthy ingredients, especially protein like a burger would have, but nowhere near the amount of fat. Is the grill hot yet?

Black Bean Burgers

Ingredients
-1 16oz can black beans
-1/2 green pepper
-2/3 onion
-4 cloves garlic
-2 tsp hot sauce
-1 egg
-1 tbsp chili powder
-1 tbsp cumin
-1 tbsp basil
-3/4 cup bread crumbs

Directions
1. Drain liquid from the can of beans. Place beans in small bowl and rinse thoroughly with water so the coating is removed. Drain the water from the bowl, and pour beans onto a dry paper towel. Allow to sit for 5min before blotting dry with another paper towel. (The dryer, the better).
2. Meanwhile, cut green pepper and onion into small chunks and put into food processor along with the garlic and hot sauce. Mix until smooth. Place contents in a very thinly netted sifter and, using a spoon, press down on contents so that all of the liquid is removed.
3. Place the dried beans into a medium bowl and mash using a fork. Stir dried food processor contents into mashed beans until fully incorporated.
4. In a small bowl, combine egg and spices and whisk until blended (the egg works as an adhesive). Pour contents into the mashed beans and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Stir in bread crumbs to provide more solidity to the mashed beans. Place in refrigerator for 10min to slightly solidify.
6. On a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper, form patties into desired size for burgers. Place another piece of parchment paper or wax paper on top and freeze for at least 2hrs. This will ensure a solid burger.
7. Remove from freezer and parchment or wax paper and place on tin foil. Grill for about 10min on each side or until they have reached your desired charred-ness.
8. Dress up your veggie burger with sharp cheddar cheese, tomato, spinach, and pickles for a delicious grilled vegetarian entree!

*My vegetarian brother, Jared, and friend, Marissa, both gave these their seal of approval!
*If there is time, do steps 1-6 the night before!
*The less liquid from the beans and veggies the better!