Spicy Pinto Bean Burgers

1. 1
   prep

   Soak the pinto beans overnight.

   Rinse the dried pinto beans and soak them in plenty of water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain well before cooking.

   TIPA long soak helps the beans cook evenly and makes them easier to digest.
2. 2
   pressure cook · ~15 min

   Pressure cook the beans until tender.

   Add the drained beans to a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Cook on medium heat for 4-5 whistles, then let the pressure release naturally. The beans should be soft and mashable. Drain any remaining liquid and set aside to cool slightly.

3. 3
   saute · ~6 min

   Sauté the onion and garlic.

   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.

4. 4
   prep

   Preheat the oven to 375°F.

   Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. 5
   mix

   Mash and mix the burger mixture.

   1.In a large bowl, combine the cooked pinto beans and mash with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture.

   2.Add the sautéed onion and garlic, minced chipotle pepper with adobo sauce, cumin powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

   3.Fold in the breadcrumbs and beaten egg until the mixture holds together when pressed. If it feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs.

   TIPDon't over-mash — keeping some bean chunks gives the patties a meatier bite.
6. 6
   prep

   Shape the patties.

   Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾-inch thick and slightly wider than your buns. Place them on the lined baking sheet.

   TIPChill the shaped patties for 15 minutes if you have time — they firm up and hold together better during baking.
7. 7
   bake · ~21 min

   Bake the patties until golden and firm.

   Brush the tops of the patties lightly with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Bake for 20-22 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through, until both sides are crisp and golden brown.

   TIPUse a thin metal spatula for flipping and handle gently while the patties are hot.
8. 8
   assemble

   Toast the buns and build the burgers.

   1.Split the burger buns and toast them lightly in a dry pan or under the broiler until golden.

   2.Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun.

   3.Set a warm bean patty on top, followed by tomato and sliced avocado.

   4.Close with the top bun half and serve immediately.

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