In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked black beans, grated yellow onion, minced garlic, diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, tamari, balsamic vinegar, ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper. Use a potato masher to mash the mixture until it’s partially smooth but still has visible chunks of beans, about 2-3 minutes.

Next, fold in a large egg to bind the mixture well, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Then, sprinkle in panko bread crumbs gradually while mixing until the mixture holds together. If it’s too wet, consider chilling it for 20 minutes to improve cohesion before proceeding to the next step.

Take about 1/3 cup of the mixture and shape it into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat this process to form a total of six patties, ensuring they’re evenly shaped for uniform cooking. Leave the patties aside to firm up slightly while you prepare to cook them.

Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat, brushing the surface generously with extra-virgin olive oil. You want the skillet hot enough to sizzle when the black bean burger patties are added, which will help achieve a nice char as they cook.

Carefully place the patties in the skillet and let them cook for about 5 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. If you prefer, you can grill the patties at 400°F for a similar cooking duration to enjoy that grilled flavor.

Once the black bean burgers are cooked through and charred on the outside, remove them from the skillet and place them onto hamburger buns. Add your favorite toppings, such as chipotle sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles to enhance the flavor and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!