Healthy Brownies

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed, or
¾ cup dried black beans
4 eggs (2 whole, 2 egg-whites only)
5 tablespoons neutral-tasting oil, like canola oil
or grape seed oil
3/4 cup raw agave nectar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup bean flour or other gluten-free flour
1 teaspoon xanthan gum or guar gum
2 tablespoons vanilla
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup chopped walnuts, optional
¼ cup dark chocolate chips, optional

Directions:
1. If using dried black beans, soak them for several hours and cook them until very tender, about 60 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and set aside.
3. Add black beans to a bowl of a food processor and process until a paste forms.
4. Add eggs, oil, agave, cocoa, flour, xanthan gum, vanilla and baking powder. Process until smooth and well combined. Add walnuts, if using, and process until walnuts are mixed in.
5. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Top with chocolate chips, if using.
6. Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until an inserted tester (toothpick works great) comes out clean.

Makes 12 brownies