Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burger

Sweet potato and black bean burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional burgers. This vegetarian dish is perfect for those who are looking for a meatless meal that is full of flavor and nutrition. Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while black beans are high in protein and fiber, making this recipe a well-balanced meal. Moreover, these burgers are easy to prepare, and the ingredients are easily available in the market.

Whether you are a vegetarian or not, this recipe is a must-try. 

Not only are these burgers healthier than traditional beef burgers, but they are also more environmentally friendly. 

According to research, producing beef generates far more greenhouse gases than producing plant-based foods like sweet potatoes and black beans.

 Therefore, by choosing this recipe, you are doing your bit for the environment while also enjoying a delicious meal.

Ingredients:

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
½ teaspoon of chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon of olive oil

Preparation method:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the sweet potatoes until tender, for about 15 minutes. Drain the water and let the sweet potatoes cool.

3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes until the onions are soft.

4. Add the black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. In a large bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes with a fork. Add the black bean mixture and breadcrumbs, and mix well.

6. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions, and form each portion into a patty.

7. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Serve the burgers on buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or salsa.

FAQs:

Q1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh sweet potatoes? 
A. No, it is not recommended to use canned sweet potatoes as they are too soft and have a different texture than fresh sweet potatoes.
Q2. Can I use a food processor to mash the sweet potatoes? 
A. Yes, you can use a food processor to mash the sweet potatoes. However, be careful not to overprocess them, as they may become too soft and affect the texture of the burgers.
Q3. Can I freeze the burgers? 
A. Yes, you can freeze the uncooked burgers. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until firm. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.