To make delicious Vegan Sweet Potato Burgers, follow this simple recipe that combines sweet potatoes, black beans, oats, and spices. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• 1 medium sweet potato (about 1 cup mashed)
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (or quick oats)
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste (about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon)
• Olive oil, for cooking (if pan-frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potato:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Cut the sweet potato in half lengthwise and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for about 30 minutes or until fork-tender. Allow it to cool, then scoop out the flesh and mash it in a bowl.

Mix the Ingredients:

• In the bowl with the mashed sweet potato, add the drained black beans. Use a fork to mash them together slightly, leaving some whole beans for texture.
• Stir in the rolled oats, chopped red onion, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Form Patties:

• Using about 1/2 cup of the mixture for each patty, shape them into burger forms. You should be able to make about 4-6 patties depending on size.

Chill:

• Place the formed patties on a plate and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps them hold together better during cooking.

Cook the Patties:

• You can either bake or pan-fry the patties:
  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes on one side, flip carefully, and bake for another 15 minutes.
  • Pan-Frying: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Serve:

• Serve your sweet potato burgers on buns with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or vegan mayo.

Tips

• For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like cayenne pepper or fresh herbs.
• These burgers can be frozen for later use; just ensure they are well-wrapped.

Here are some creative ideas and tips for enhancing your vegan sweet potato burgers:

Creative Toppings for Vegan Sweet Potato Burgers

1. Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth texture.
2. Sriracha Mayo: Mix vegan mayo with Sriracha for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the burger.
3. Kimchi: Adds a tangy and spicy flavor, perfect for those who enjoy fermented foods.
4. Grilled Pineapple: Sweet and juicy, grilled pineapple can add a tropical twist.
5. Pickled Red Onions: Their acidity balances the sweetness of the burger beautifully.
6. Fresh Greens: Spinach, arugula, or mixed greens add crunch and freshness.
7. Hummus or Tahini Sauce: For a creamy texture and nutty flavor, spread hummus or drizzle tahini sauce on top.
8. Roasted Red Peppers: They provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with sweet potatoes.

Can I Use Other Types of Beans Instead of Chickpeas in Sweet Potato Burgers?

Yes, you can substitute chickpeas with other types of beans such as black beans, white beans, or kidney beans. Each type will impart its unique flavor and texture to the burgers while still providing protein and fiber.

How to Make Sweet Potato Burgers More Crispy

1. Use Panko Bread Crumbs: Incorporating panko bread crumbs into the mixture or coating the patties before cooking can enhance crispiness[1].
2. Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the patties for 20-30 minutes helps them firm up, making them less likely to fall apart and more likely to crisp up when cooked.
3. Pan-Fry in Oil: Cooking the patties in a skillet with a bit of oil over medium-high heat creates a crispy exterior.
4. Broil at the End: If baking, consider broiling the patties for the last few minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust.

Gluten-Free Alternatives to Panko Bread Crumbs

• Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs: Many brands offer gluten-free bread crumbs that can be used as a direct substitute.
• Ground Oats: You can pulse gluten-free oats in a food processor to create a crumb-like texture.
• Cornmeal or Rice Flour: These can be used to coat the patties before cooking for added crunch.

Best Way to Store Leftover Sweet Potato Burgers

Store leftover sweet potato burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, use the microwave or pan-fry them until warmed through.

Enjoy your homemade vegan sweet potato burgers! They are nutritious, filling, and perfect for any meal.