Meatless Bean Burger Patties

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!