Spicy Sweet Potato and Black Bean Veggie Burger Patties

22:31:00 Unknown 0 Comments

Serves 4 / Approximate prep time: 30 minutes 

I have been searching for the perfect veggie burger for so long, and I can definitely say that I found the answer to success, well, answers to be correct. First, you need a base that is going to stick together. Second, seasoning, seasoning and seasoning! I cannot stress how much of what you love in a dish is not the base product (i.e. the meat) but actually the seasonings or garnishes. Case in point, these burgers. Now that I am 90% veggie (eating fish when I am not too poor) this feels especially true. Almost any of my past recipes like Chicken Bowtie Pasta, replace the chicken with artichoke hearts and voila! It's the wine, sundried tomatoes and basil that add the key notes. Anyway, for these burgers the cajun spice, curry powder and fresh herbs are really the stars. NB: I don't like beans very much, but I adore these burgers so do not be put off!



Ingredients

a small handful of fresh mint, finely chopped (leaves only)
a small handful of fresh coriander (cilantro), finely chopped
1/2 to 1 tbsp of cajun spice (depending on heat preference)
1/2 tbsp of curry powder
1/8 tsp of cayenne (alternatively, add more cajun spice)
1 tbsp of peanut butter (replace with sunflower seed butter if you have a nut allergy or simply add less oats)
2 (300g) medium sized sweet potatoes, cooked
1 (400g) can of black beans, drained
45g of porridge oats
salt and pepper


Preparation 

1. Mash the black beans and sweet potato. When mashed, combine together. The best way to do this is to use a large, flat-bottomed tupperware. That way there is less mess for later, and you can do the mashing in the same container you mix. 
2. Mix in the peanut butter and oats. 
3. Add your fresh herbs and spices. Season with salt and pepper. 
4. When all the ingredients are well combined, separate into 8 even sized blobs. 
5. Using your hands mold the 8 blobs into burger patties. You can easily make them as large as you want. One of this size make an excellent child's portion or two is perfect for an adult. 
6. Heat oil in a frying pan. 
7. On a medium/high heat pan fry the burgers on each side until golden brown. 
8. Serve as they are with a side or in a bun as a regular burger. 
9. Enjoy!