Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to reduce your meat intake, these homemade black bean and sweet potato burgers are a delicious and nutritious option.
Packed with flavor, these plant-based burgers are easy to make and offer a satisfying alternative to traditional meat burgers. With the added bonus of being gluten-free, they cater to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:.
- 2 cups cooked black beans
- 1 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Mash the Beans
In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked black beans using a fork or a potato masher. You want a chunky consistency with some beans still intact for texture.
Step 2: Add Sweet Potato
Add the mashed sweet potato to the bowl with the black beans. Mix well to combine the two ingredients.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flavor
Add the breadcrumbs, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the black bean and sweet potato mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into equal portions, depending on your desired patty size. Using your hands, shape each portion into a round patty and set aside on a plate.
Step 5: Cook the Burgers
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the burgers are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a serving plate.
Related Article
Healthy Homemade Veggie Burgers
Now comes the fun part – add your favorite burger toppings! You can opt for traditional choices like lettuce, tomato, and onion, or get creative with avocado, pickles, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. Serve the burgers on whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Tips for Perfect Burgers
Follow these tips to ensure your black bean and sweet potato burgers turn out perfectly:.
- Make sure the cooked black beans are well-drained before mashing. Excess moisture can make the mixture too wet, resulting in burgers that fall apart while cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- If the mixture feels too dry to form patties, you can add a little water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a cohesive consistency.
- To save time, you can cook the sweet potato and black beans in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the burgers.
- If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can crush some crackers or use oat flour instead.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the fantastic aspects of this black bean and sweet potato burger recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your preferences.
You can also add extras like cooked quinoa, diced bell peppers, or shredded carrots for additional texture and nutrients.
These burgers also make a great make-ahead option. You can prepare a batch of patties and freeze them individually for future use.
Just place a sheet of parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking, and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and cook as instructed.
So, the next time you’re craving a burger but want a healthier and more sustainable option, try making these homemade black bean and sweet potato burgers.
Their delicious flavor and wholesome ingredients will leave you satisfied and proud to enjoy a meat-free meal!.
