Okay, okay..I know I've boasted about veggie burger recipes in the past, but this recipe is MAJOR! With a combination of my love for anything and all things sweet potato, plus the plant based protein powerhouse that is black beans..this recipe packs flavor and nutritional punch to the max!
Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite vegetables, for the naturally delicious taste but also for the nutritional benefits they hold.
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C. Healthy immune systems are important in fighting off diseases, from the small common cold to cancers, diabetes, and inflammation disorders. Vitamin C is also essential to bone and tooth health, digestion and healthy blood cell formation. Sweet potatoes also produce collagen naturally which helps to maintain a healthy, youthful glow to your skin.
Sweet potatoes contain a low-glycemic index. This is key for people with diabetes, sweet potatoes are naturally sweet however the natural sugars are slowly released into the bloodstream. This helps to balance sugar levels and prevent blood sugar spikes that can lead to fatigue, and weight gain.
Sweet potatoes help to ward off cancers. The rich orange color of sweet potatoes mean they are high in carotenoids like beta-carotene. Carotenoids are antioxidants help boost the bodies natural immunity while carrying out cancer causing free radicals in the body. According to care2.com, studies at Harvard University of more than 124,000 people showed a 32 percent reduction in risk of lung cancer in people who consumed a variety of carotenoid-rich foods as part of their regular diet.
Sweet potatoes are a root vegetable. Root vegetables often contain a higher amount of vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants then other vegetables. They are grown underground amongst nutrient rich soil, and believe to contain very grounding properties for the mind, body and soul.
Sweet Potato-Black Bean Burger
Ingredients::
(Makes Six)
-1 can organic BPA-free can of black beans
-1 cup almond meal
-3 cups roasted sweet potatoes
-handful of chopped organic cilantro
-2 tablespoons chopped red onion
To roast sweet potatoes::
-Heat oven to 375 degrees
-Peel and slice sweet potatoes
-Place in bowl, drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil, and desired spices and mix well
I use chili pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt and pepper
-Spread evenly on baking sheet, and bake for 25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are fork tender
Directions::
1. Bake sweet potatoes until fork tender and let chill for about 5 minutes
2. Combine cooled sweet potatoes, black beans, red onion, cilantro, almond meal and additional spices to food proccesor
3. Pulse for 5 seconds! Until all ingredients are combined
4. Set patties out on pan and chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes
5. Heat skillet with olive oil and fry on each side for about 3-4 minutes
6. Add to gluten free burger bun or eat solo with a side of pickled red cabbage or carrot sticks :)
6. Give thanks + enjoy!