Everyone enjoys a good burger, especially in Upstate NY. Here is a fun way to make this dish plant based to accommodate all diets. This recipe is easy and quick to make for all occasions. Not only does this dish provide the same, if not more protein, it offers many other benefits such as fiber and antioxidants. “So these burgers can help improve my health?” Yes! Beans are a natural source that provides many nutrients that meat can’t. They are low in cholesterol and sodium – both of which can be high in meats. Additionally, meats can be full of saturated fats while black beans can of er the body omega-3 fatty acids, AKA heart healthy fats!. So, if you are looking to improve your health without giving up a fan favorite, give this recipe a shot! 

Ingredients:

• 1 16 oz can of black beans 
• 1 cup of quick oats 
• ½ cube of beef bouillon powder or ½ package of onion soup mix 

Directions: 

1. Heat beans in a microwave or on a stove until very hot. 
2. Pour beans into a food processor or a large mixing bowl. Add oats and bouillon powder and mix into a dough. 
3. Form small balls of dough and place on a griddle. 
4. Cook patties evenly until golden brown. 
5. Enjoy with your favorite toppings! For a halloween spin, add a sour cream spiderweb on top of your burger! 

Nutrition Information: Serving Size: 4 black bean burgers | Servings per recipe: 4 | Per one burger: 44 kcal | Protein: 2.3g | Carbohydrates: 5.7g | Fat: 0.6g | 6% Fiber | 3% Iron | 1% Calcium | 4% Folate | 3% Potassium 

*Recipe adapted from Everyday Cooking

Photos provided by MB Mitcham