HOMEMADE BLACK BEAN BURGERS

5 whole-wheat hamburger buns

1 can (15-oz) black beans, rinsed & drained well
1/2 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
2 large egg whites
2 green onions, sliced
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp garlic salt
1 tbsp canola or olive oil

Tear one of the hamburger buns into pieces and place in food processor.  Process until 1 cup of coarse crumbs; transfer to a medium mixing bowl.

In the processor bowl, place the black beans, cheese, egg whites, onions, chili powder, oregano, and garlic salt.  Process to a thick paste, scraping down sides of bowl once.  Add the mixture to the bread crumbs in the mixing bowl.

Heat the oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Use a 1/2 cup measuring cup to spoon up mixture for patties.  Drop into skillet and press down to form patties approximately 4-inches in diameter.  Cook 4 minutes, turn and cook another 4 minutes or cook until browned on both sides.

Serve on the remaining 4 hamburger buns with a slice of tomato and a leaf of lettuce. Use a low-fat sauce if desired.

file photo