Recipe: Black Bean and Farro Vegetable Burgers

These black bean and farro vegetable burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, they're perfect for a satisfying and guilt-free meal.

The high fiber content in these black bean and farro vegetable burgers, along with other plant-based foods, can reduce the risk of colon cancer and promote overall digestive health.

Ingredients

• 3 ¾ cups canned black beans; drained and rinsed
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• ⅓ cup farro
• 1 small white onion, finely diced
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup coarse fresh bread crumbs
• ¼ cup chopped basil
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• ¼ freshly ground pepper
• Vegetable oil for sauteing
• 8 toasted buns
• Burger toppings of your choice

Preparation

1. In a large saucepan, heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil. Add farro and cook over moderate heat, stirring for about 2 minutes. Add 1.5 cups of water and a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer until the grains are cooked through, about 30 minutes.
2. In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add in the diced onion and cook until softened. Add in crushed pepper and garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes.
3. In a food processor, pulse beans and set aside a ½ cup portion into a chunky puree. Fold in the remaining ½ cup of beans, farro, onion and garlic, bread crumbs, basil, cilantro and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Form the mixture into 8 patties, cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet. Add burgers and cook over medium heat, turning once, until heated through, about 6 minutes.
6. Assemble the burgers by adding toppings and condiments of your choice. Serve and enjoy!

Next Steps & Resources

• Recipe shared by the oncology dietitians at John Theurer Cancer Center
• Check out our next hot topic and register for The Cutting Edge Kitchen