Mash the beans/ Add the drained beans to a bowl and mash them until they’re partly smooth but still a little chunky. This gives the patties structure without making them mushy.
Add oats, vegetables, and seasonings/ Stir in the rolled oats, chopped onion, grated carrot or zucchini, garlic, and all the spices. The mixture may look loose at first—give the oats a moment to absorb moisture.
Mix in the egg or flax egg/ Add the egg (or flax egg for a vegan version) and mix gently. If the mixture feels too wet, add a small spoonful of oats until it firms up.
Let the mixture rest/ Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This step helps the oats hydrate and makes the patties easier to shape.
Shape the patties/ With damp hands, form the mixture into 4 patties. Slightly uneven edges are fine—they actually brown better.
Cook the patties/ Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 5–6 minutes per side, or until crisp and golden. Flip gently once the patties naturally release from the pan.
Assemble your burger/ Place each patty on a whole-grain bun and add lettuce, tomato, mustard, or any toppings you love. Serve warm and enjoy a blood-sugar-friendly, high-fiber meal.