This recipe is modified from one my wife found in a magazine. It's a great substitute for a meat patty. Make a batch of these and put them in the refrigerator. They are easy to reheat and enjoy as a quick meal or a packed lunch for work.
1 can of black eyed peas (or black beans)
1/2 red bell pepper
1/2 yellow (or orange) bell pepper
2 eggs
4 slices of sugar free whole wheat bread for bread crumbs
1/2 cup cooked brown rice (optional... but I like it)
1/2 tsp dried garlic/garlic powder (or some fresh garlic)
1 Tbsp Chili Powder (more or less to taste)
Olive oil
Put your bread slices in the oven at a lower temp to dry them out completely. Once dry, crush them to a fine bread crumb.
Rinse and strain the can of beans. Mash beans in a mixing bowl.
Finely chop peppers and add to mashed beans.
Mix in all other ingredients.
The mix should be a nice consistency to make patties.
Spread olive oil on a hot griddle. Place patties on the oil and let cook for about 8-10 minutes on one side. Do not turn too soon or the patties will have a tendency to break up. After 8-10 minutes, turn once and cook for another 8-10 minutes. I normally add a little more olive oil around the patties after turning.
One batch makes 6 - 8 patties. These aren't the fasted meal to make, but heating them up tomorrow is quick in the microwave. I wrap the patty in a paper towel and heat for about 30 seconds.
Dressing the patty: Treat this like you would a hamburger. I like to top mine with a little mayo and BBQ sauce (sugar free of course... I'll have a recipe for that as well). A slice of cheese, some lettuce a slice of tomato... you get the picture. All on a sugar free whole wheat hamburger bun.
Variations: Once you make these try to imagine some of the possible variations. Try some chopped mushrooms or different kinds of peppers. I have even thought of possibly adding some TVP (textured vegetable protein).
Enjoy!
