Sriracha Vegan Black Pepper Bean Burgers

Method

1. Heat a pan over medium heat. Add raw walnuts and toast 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden brown. Transfer to a small bowl to cool.
2. Heat olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Add onion. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté 5-7 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Once walnuts are cool, add to a food processor along with the cumin, chilli powder, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder and red pepper flakes. Process until thoroughly combined.
4. In a large bowl, mash beans with a fork leaving about ½ of them whole for texture.
5. To the beans, add the sautéed onions, walnut-spice mixture, cooked rice, Panko breadcrumbs, and Sriracha Black Pepper (if too wet or dry add either more panko or sauce). Mix thoroughly with a spatula or wooden spoon until a mouldable dough forms. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Firmly mould the mixture into 4 patties.
7. Place the burgers on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and chill at least 30 minutes to firm up before cooking.
8. When ready to cook, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook burgers 3-4 minutes on each side. Reduce heat slightly if they brown too quickly.
9. Serve with your desired toppings in your buns, make sure to add extra Sriracha Black Pepper (this is a necessity… they are definitely better with more of it!)