Beans, beans, the musical fruit : )

Beans are praised as a source of lean protein, iron, and fiber. With so many types of beans available the possibilities are endless...soups, salsas, dips, and even burgers. So join me this Sunday evening with a meatless meal that is loaded with nutrients and oh so flavorful!

Black Bean Patties

3 tablespoon olive oil, divided

1 small yellow onion, diced
1 large clove garlic, diced
1 small poblano chile pepper, stemmed, seeded, and diced
2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 chipotle chile in adobo sauce, diced
1/2  cup whole wheat breadcrumbs, plus extra for dusting
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 (15-oz.) can black beans, rinsed, drained, and pureed (use immersion blender or mini chopper)
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Avocado Yogurt Sauce
½ cup non-fat Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1 avocado halved, pitted, and peeled
salt to taste

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and saute until soft, about 4 minutes. Add poblano pepper and saute until soft, about 4 minutes. Then add garlic and saute an additional 1 minute. Add cumin, paprika, and chipotle chile and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute more. 

Transfer to a bowl and allow to cool, about 5-7 minutes. Mix in breadcrumbs, pureed beans, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine. 

Divide mixture evenly into 4  sections. With wet hands form patties about 3" wide x 1/2" thick. Dredge patties in breadcrumbs and place on a plate. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until ready to use.

Meanwhile prepare the Avocado Yogurt Sauce- 
Combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, avocado in a blender or mini food processor. Puree until smooth and season with salt to taste. Transfer to a covered bowl and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Heat remaining 2 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over a medium heat. Saute patties, flipping once, until lightly browned on each side and cooked through, about 5 minutes. 

Top patties with Avocado Yogurt Sauce and enjoy with a friend...