Spicy Edamame Burgers

After going vegetarian toward the end of college I became well acquainted with black bean burgers. At most restaurants (at least in my hometown) that serve burgers, the only vegetarian option is a black bean burger. I quickly found that I LOVE them (thankfully!). If I ever decide to join back up with the meat eaters, I will probably still be ordering black bean burgers from time to time. (Just for the record, I am currently a pescatarian, meaning the only meat I eat is seafood.)I like to experiement in the kitchen. If black bean burgers are awesome then what about other beans? Like, say, edamame? Freaky green burgers that are also freaky delicious? Yes, please.Spicy Edamame Burgers, make 5-6.

1/3 white onion
4-5 garlic cloves
30 ounces cooked edamame
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2/3 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (more if you like the heat)
1/2 teaspoon salt
a generous sprinkle of pepperA simple way to make bread crumbs is to leave bread out (like extra hamburger buns) the night before. Then in the morning pulse them in a food processor. If you forget to leave bread out, you could toast the bread in the oven and then blend it up. But I like the overnight version, because I’m lazy.In a food processor, blend together 2/3 of the edamame, onion, garlic, cilantro, 1/2 of the bread crumbs, egg, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper until a thick paste forms. In a bowl combine this paste with the remaining edamame (give them a rough chop first) and bread crumbs. Fold together until just combined. With your (clean) hands form 5-6 patties. You can wrap these in plastic and freeze them or cook them immediately.

To cook, heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly dredge the patty in flour. Cook in the oil until warmed through and crispy on both sides.These have a truly delicious and unique flavor plus a little kick from the red pepper. They are also super healthy and a fun alternative to whatever burgers tend to be your usual. Enjoy these! xo. Emma

P.S. Want more vegetarian dinner options? Check out: portobello mushroom burgers, vegetarian chili or asian style dumpling soup.