Black Bean Sweet Potato Burgers

This is a staple in my house for a few reasons...it's savory, it's filling, it's nutritious, and it will please everyone in the family.

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I'm not into cooking every single night. I know most of you aren't either. This is where bean patties become a life savor because they freeze well! Make a double batch and throw them in the freezer.

Crazy morning? Pop one in the microwave, throw it on a whole grain english muffin with hot sauce, and you have a breakfast sandwich.

Too tired to make dinner? Bam, the work is already done. You can eat it as a burger or crumble it into taco meat.

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Black Bean Sweet Potato Burger Patties

Makes: 6 large or 8 small patties

Time: 30 min prep, 30 min cook

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 can black beans, drained + rinsed

• 1/2 cup sweet potato, cooked

• 1/4 cup dry brown rice

• 1/2 onion, chopped

• 2 Tbsp ground flax seeds + 1/4 cup filtered water

Optional added flavor: 1 Tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp salt

Burger assembly: Whole wheat buns, lettuce, tomato, red onion, vegan cheese (I prefer the brand Chao), vegan mayo + hot sauce

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 400.

2. Cook the rice in 3/4 cup filtered water over medium heat. When the rice starts to boil, reduce to medium-low and leave the lid on. Once the water is absorbed and the rice is soft, it's done. If the rice is still hard, add 1/4 cup more of water and let it cook a little longer.

3. While the rice cooks, mix the ground flax seeds with 1/4 cup filtered water in a little bowl and chill in fridge for 15 min. This will expand into a gel and act as the binding agent in place of an egg.

4. When the rice and flax gel are prepared, mash all ingredients together in a large bowl until uniformly combined. I like to use a food processor for the part, but if you don't have one you can just use a fork.

5. Use your hands to assemble into burger patties. If the mixture is too soft or sticky, stick it in the fridge for 15 minutes to harden up a little. Make sure the patties are uniform and not too big in the middle, or they will cook unevenly.

6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake for 30 minutes.

7. Allow the patties to rest and cook slightly before assembling. This will help them firm up.

8. Assemble your burger and load it with your favorite toppings.

Throw the rest of the burgers in a freezer-safe ziploc bag and your future self will thank you!