Black Bean Burgers with Sriracha Aioli

Anyone who has lived with Shea and I over the years knows that occasionally we go into what we affectionately call a "bean phase". Basically, we both love beans and a couple of times a year, beans are a staple in our diet. So when I saw this recipe, a bean burger with a Sriracha sauce, I knew I would love it.

I made this recipe on a night that Shea wasn't home, so I have to admit I took a bunch of short cuts. The most obvious one is that I forgot to buy buns, so I decided to eat these little patties on their own. They turned out pretty good, but if I was going to make it again I would definitely eat it on a bunch (and maybe even add a fried egg!).

Black Bean Burgers with Sriracha Aioli

Courtesy of Cooking Light at http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/black-bean-burgers-50400000131064/

Ingredients

• 1 (15-ounce) can unsalted black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons lower-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Cooking spray
• 4 (1 1/2-ounce) hamburger buns
• 1/4 cup canola mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (hot chile sauce)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
• 2 cups baby arugula

Preparation

1. 1. Preheat oven to 425°.
2. 2. Place beans in a large bowl; lightly mash. Stir in onion and next 7 ingredients. Divide mixture into 4 portions; shape each into a 1/2-inch-thick patty.
3. 3. Arrange patties on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 425° for 8 minutes; turn after 6 minutes. Add bun halves to pan; bake 3 minutes.
4. 4. Combine mayonnaise, Sriracha, and juice; spread over bottom halves of buns. Top each serving with 1 patty, 1/2 cup arugula, and top halves of buns.