Sarah's Culinary Adventure: Black Bean and Salsa Burgers in Norfolk County, ON

"Celebrate Summer! Sun drenched days and starlit nights..." Gooseberry Patch

Hiya my summer loving followers, it's been a while!
Yes, it's been a busy summer so far full of camping, time spent at our 10 acres in Norfolk County, Ontario, days at the beach and family barbecues. The quintessential summer activities, I suppose! Today I finally have the chance to sit down for a bit and do my blog, even though I am having a hard time concentrating. Does a beautiful sunny day have that effect on you as well? Anyhow, I must push those thoughts of being in the sun out of my mind for now and share with you my latest summer recipe! Bean burgers are something that I had always wanted to make, but for some strange reason never had. So, while thinking of a quick dinner idea, I finally did it! The burgers turned out great and only took minutes to put together!

Simple and Tasty Recipe:

Black Bean and Salsa Burgers
(makes 4 patties)

1 can (540 ml) black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup bread crumbs
½ cup salsa
1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp chili powder
* 1/2 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped (optional)
Sea salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp vegetable oil

In a large bowl, mash the beans with a fork or potato masher until somewhat smooth, but still a bit chunky. Stir in the breadcrumbs, salsa, scallions, coriander, spices and the jalapeno (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning. Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Divide the mixture into four and shape into patties, about 2 cms thick and carefully place them into the skillet. Pan fry the burgers until they are browned and crunchy, about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Serve on a bun with your favourite cheese (soya based or dairy based), lettuce, tomato, onion, salsa and guacamole. Enjoy!

Since the bean mixture is soft, the burgers need to be pan fried or put on a flat grill to cook. Another option for these burgers is to cut them in half and eat them in a wrap, burrito style. Delicious! Also, kidney beans work just as well in this recipe. I have no idea why it took me so long to try out bean burgers, but now that I have, they appear on our dinner menu quite often!

Well, I have decided to include a few photos from our 10 acres. I hope you enjoy them and hope you are all having a fabulous summer! Be safe, reapply that sunscreen often, drink lots of water and have fun! Until next time, followers!