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  Add beans to a large bowl and mash roughly with a potato masher. Not too much though, we want some chunks through the mixture for texture.
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  Add the chopped green onions, lime zest and juice, cumin, garlic powder, ground flax seed, cilantro, salt, pepper and optional chili flakes. Mix well making sure everything is combined. I find clean hands are the best tool for this.
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  Taste the mixture to check the seasoning and add more salt and pepper if necessary. 
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  Refrigerate the mixture for about 15 minutes to let the flaxseed get to work. This helps it firm up a little and makes it easier to shape the burgers.
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  Shape into 4 separate balls, then press each one down firmly using the palm of your hand or the bottom of a mug until it's a burger patty shape. I don't recommend making them too thin. Anywhere from ¾ to 1 inch thickness is best. If they crack a bit press them gently back together.

To pan fry

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  Heat the oil in a pan over a medium low heat. If you aren't using the oil be sure to use a non-stick pan.
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  Once the pan is hot add the burgers making sure there is plenty of space around each one to enable you to flip them easily later. If you can't fit them all in, have your oven on low (300 ° F / 148 °C) and once the first ones are done keep them warm in there until the rest are ready.
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  Cook for about 7 minutes each side, or until a nice golden crust forms.
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  Before serving brush generously with the optional BBQ sauce. It adds another layer of flavour and makes them look really good!

To oven bake

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  Put the burgers on a lined tray, brush with oil if using, then bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 25 minutes, or until heated through and a little bit crusty on the outside. Flip them over halfway through the cooking time.
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  Before serving brush generously with the optional BBQ sauce. It adds another layer of flavour and makes them look really good!

To grill

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  Be sure to squeeze the patties together really, really well, and treat them very gently. I often cook mine on a grill pan then I don't have to worry as much about bits potentially breaking off when turning. Cook them over a medium-low heat for about 7 minutes each side. Before serving brush generously with the optional BBQ sauce. It adds another layer of flavour and makes them look really good!