Savory Chipotle Black Bean Burgers

1. Preheat Oven and Roast Beans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the rinsed and drained black beans on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes, until they mostly split open and their skins become crunchy. This step is crucial as it dries out the beans and gives the burgers a better texture.

2. Cook Onion and Poblano Pepper

While the beans are roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and poblano pepper, cooking and stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the finely chopped chipotle chile and the teaspoon of adobo sauce, cooking for 30 seconds more.

3. Prepare Cashews

Transfer the onion and pepper mixture to a large bowl. In a food processor, pulse the roasted cashews until they are chopped into pieces no larger than 1/3-inch. Add the chopped cashews to the onion and pepper mixture.

4. Combine Ingredients

Next, pulse the roasted black beans and crumbled feta or cotija cheese in the food processor until they are roughly chopped. Transfer this mixture to the bowl with the onions, peppers, and cashews. Add the panko bread crumbs, large egg, mayonnaise, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Fold everything together gently until well combined.

5. Form Patties

Form the mixture into 6 to 8 patties, depending on your preferred size. To cook the patties indoors, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes per side, flipping them carefully. If you like, add a slice of cheese to each patty after flipping.

6. Grill Patties

Alternatively, to cook the patties on a grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and clean the grilling grate. Brush each patty with a little oil to prevent sticking. Cook the patties on the grill for 3 to 5 minutes per side, flipping them carefully and adding cheese if desired.

7. Assemble Burgers

Assemble your burgers by spreading your chosen condiments on the toasted buns. Add the cooked patties and top with shredded lettuce, sliced onions, and pickles as desired. Close the burgers and serve immediately. Enjoy your savory chipotle black bean burgers!