Spicy Butter Bean Burgers

Serves 4

15-oz. can butter beans or lima beans, drained

1/2 c. onion, chopped

1 T. jalapeño pepper, finely chopped and seeds removed

6 to 8 saltine crackers, crushed

1 egg, beaten

1/2 c. shredded Cheddar cheese

1/4 t. garlic powder

salt and pepper to taste

olive oil for frying

4 whole-wheat sandwich buns, split

Mash beans in a bowl; mix in remaining ingredients except oil and buns. Form into 4 patties. Add 1/4 inch oil to a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry patties until golden, about 5 minutes per side, turning carefully. If baking is preferred, place patties on a greased baking sheet; bake at 400 degrees for 7 to 10 minutes per side. Serve on buns.

When making any dish with hot jalapeño peppers, it’s always a good idea to wear plastic gloves to avoid irritation while cutting, slicing and chopping. Don’t touch your face, lips or eyes while you’re working! Just toss away the gloves when you’re done.