By: President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition

How do you like your burger? Consider ditching the traditional beef or turkey patty for a black bean burger. When the beans are smashed and mixed with just the right spice, you end up with a delicious alternative.

This substitution is also great for anyone looking for a healthy option without sacrificing taste. Black beans are low in fat, cholesterol-free, and provide 30% of the daily recommended amount of fiber.

Give this recipe a try and tell the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition how you like it! Be sure to share pictures on Twitter. Tag @FitnessGov and/or hashtag #CookWithTheCouncil

#CookWithTheCouncil – Dr. Jayne’s Black Bean Burgers!

Ingredients:

Burger Patties:

1 can of black beans drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 chopped cloves of fresh garlic

¼ cup diced sweet Vidalia onions

1 egg or 2 egg white (no yolk)

1 teaspoon of cumin

1 teaspoon of chili powder (if you like a bit of spice)

1 ½ cup bread crumbs

Other Ingredients:

Whole wheat hamburger buns

1 whole fresh avocado

Preparation:

1. In a food processor, add all the burger patty ingredients. Carefully place the blended mixture in a bowl so that you can divide and make your black bean patties.
2. Form your patties and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
3. Light the outdoor grill, or indoor electric grill, and brush lightly with olive oil.
4. Place the Black Bean Burgers on the grill in either a grilling pan or some aluminum foil until firm. Finish off directly on the grill so they get those wonderful grill marks.
5. While the Black Bean Burgers are cooking, gently slice into your avocado so that you can place the slices on your burger with any other condiment you desire.
6. Slightly grill the whole wheat buns on the grill and they will be ready to build your burger.

VARIATION: You can change up the flavor of your black bean burger to your taste by the types of toppings you add. This can include lettuce and tomato, salsa, cheese, etc.