Protein Bean Patties

These quick and easy whole food based bean patties will make you forget all about those frozen, packaged veggie burgers! These are so easy and delicious you’ll have all the “meat eaters” after your patties in no time!  You'll be proud to have created such a high protein, vegetarian delight.

Ingredients:

Note: See substitutions for vegan and gluten-free version

2 cups red kidney beans, cooked, rinsed and dried

1 small onion, peeled and coarsely chopped

2 cloves fresh garlic, chopped

1 carrot, chopped fine or grated

½ cup whole oats (gluten-free substitution: quinoa flakes or certified gluten-free oats)

¼ cup natural nut butter, almond, cashew, or peanut (organic)

¼ cup unsalted, raw sunflower seeds

3 tbsp raw flaxseeds

2 tbsp virgin coconut oil (or extra-virgin olive oil)

2 whole, free-range eggs (vegan substitution: 4 tbsp finely ground flaxseeds + 6 tbsp water; mix until gelatinous)

½ cup chopped celery leaves

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp curry powder

1 tsp unrefined sea salt

1 tbsp thyme

Pinch red pepper flakes

Dash worcetershire sauce (gluten-free substitution: tamari sauce)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 F (190 C). Grease large cookie sheet with coconut oil. Place all ingredients in bowl, mix together and pour in food processor (or Vita-Mix).

Process mixture until it becomes uniform. If you only have a small food processor you will need to do this in batches. Divide bean mixture into patties of equal size and place on cookie sheet. Lightly flatten them with a spoon. Makes about 6-8 patties.

Place cookie sheet into hot oven and bake patties for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top. If cheese patties are desired, add real cheddar slices to patties five minutes before end of cooking time. Serve cooked patties on whole grain buns (optional). Garnish with sliced tomato, onions, crisp lettuce, and pickles. Add any of your favorite condiments to the meal, and serve with a fresh salad.

Note:  For a low carbohydrate meal, patties can be eaten without a bun.  Simply serve them on top of a delicious salad drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt and your favorite vegetables.