quinoa black bean burgers

What is quinoa ("keen-wah")? Contrary to popular belief, quinoa is a seed and a not a whole grain.  It has been popularized due to it's high level of protein and lack of cholesterol, as well as its brief cooking time.  When compared to rice, couscous, and pasta, most people find it to be much more tastier and more versatile when adding it to food.

How am I supposed to cook quinoa?

   1. Rinse the seeds in cold water, well.  Be sure to have a fine enough strainer that doesn't allow the seeds to sneak through.

   2. Transfer the seeds into a pot with water.  I use 1.5 cups of water with every cup of quinoa (be precise with your measurements).  These seeds require much less water than rice and pastas.

   3. Once the open pot is boiling, turn the heat to low (be sure it is simmering), then cover and let simmer for 12 minutes.

   4.  Remove the quinoa from the burner and for 5 minutes allow it to "steam" inside the covered pot.

   5.  Fluff with a spoon and allow to cool.

Now for the burgers!

Ingredients to make 6 large patties:

2 cans of black beans

1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

2 chopped garlic cloves

2 teaspoons red pepper powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 teaspoons hot sauce (I used Sriracha)

1 1/4 cups cooked quinoa

1 egg white

Rinse and drain both cans of black beans.  Mix the onion, garlic, red pepper powder, cumin, lemon juice, and hot sauce in a large bowl.  Place this mixture into a food processor and allow it to process until the burgers have a texture resembling cooked oatmeal.  Transfer this blend back into the mixing bowl adding the quinoa and egg white.  Shape into patties, place onto a hot pan to cook, and enjoy!  I served them bun-less with lettuce, red bell pepper slices, and avocado.  They were fantastic!

Adapted from Bon Appetite Magazine