Lentil And Sweet Potato Burger Recipe

What is a lentil and sweet potato burger?

Indulge in a culinary journey with our Lentil and Sweet Potato Vegan Burger – a plant-powered burger that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also embraces the essence of wholesome, vegan living. This burger is a contemporary twist on the classic, offering a burst of flavours and textures while aligning with a cruelty-free lifestyle. Join us as we delve into the roots of this recipe and explore how it has evolved into a beloved staple in the vegan kitchen. This recipe provides 2 servings.

The concept of lentil and sweet potato burgers represents a modern adaptation of traditional veggie burgers, catering to the growing demand for plant-based alternatives. As the popularity of veganism and plant-centric diets has surged, so has the innovation in crafting delicious, nutrient-dense burgers. The lentils bring a protein-packed punch, while sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness and a wealth of vitamins. This fusion is a testament to the evolving landscape of vegan cuisine, where creativity and health consciousness converge.

Are lentil and sweet potato burgers healthy?

Our Lentil and Sweet Potato Vegan Burger is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious powerhouse. Red lentils provide a hearty dose of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and overall well-being. Sweet potatoes contribute a rich array of vitamins, particularly vitamin A, promoting healthy skin and immune function. The inclusion of ginger adds an anti-inflammatory element, while the absence of processed ingredients aligns with a clean and health-conscious approach to vegan dining.

Do you have a diet restriction?

This lentil and sweet potato burger recipe is great for those with restrictive diets. They’re suitable for:

• Vegan
• Vegetarian
• Gluten Free (when using a GF bun)
• Dairy Free
• Nut Free
• Ultra Processed Food Free

Ultra processed food free recipes are recipes that use ingredients where no additives have been used. This will include ingredients that can be made at home to be UPF free such as stock cubes, sauces and seasonings.

Not quite feeling this burger? Try my bean burger instead!

Step 1: Prepare sweet potato

I’ve often found with both bean and lentil burger recipes it’s easy to end up with a soggy, sludgy burger that is nothing more than a let down. Well my friends, I’ve found the key to a firm bean burger that holds its weight. The key is patience.

Like the bean burger, this lentil and sweet potato burger is held together with potato. Although this burger actually uses sweet potato. If your sweet potato isn’t pre prepared then wait until the potato has cooled before adding to the cooked lentils (cook as you would pasta or rice). You don’t need any extra moisture from the steam in your burger patties. The best way to add sweet potato into a recipe like this is to roast the whole potato and scoop out the insides. It’s also important to note here that in the UK sweet potatoes are seriously tiny. I used two sweet potatoes that were 4 inches long and pretty skinny. I didn’t think to weigh them but I would hazard a guess at around 350g of sweet potato, raw with skins.

Step 2: Prepare lentils

Whilst your sweet potato is cooking you can cook up the lentils. Weigh out 100g. Many people do like to soak lentils before cooking them to help them to soften but I really don’t think its necessary here, or with any red lentil based recipe come to think of it. Boil in a pan for 15 minutes until soft. Drain and wait for it to cool before you add to the sweet potato. With lentils I find it crucial to add more flavouring than you think you need. I find ginger works really well with sweet potato so I added 1⁄4 teaspoon of ginger into this burger recipe for a little kick. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder and half a teaspoon of onion flakes. If you like spicy food you could also try adding a sprinkle of chilli flakes to amp up the heat in this burger. Also, chilli chutney works really well with this burger.

Step 3: Form the vegan burgers

Form the patties on a baking tray with a spoon, this recipe should make 2 patties. You don’t have to use baking paper but I use it to hide my old trays, although I did find them easier to flip when I used paper. You can add sesame seeds to the top of your patties if you like but this step is optional. Now for a little more of that patience… Cook the patties for 45-60 minutes flipping halfway. The underside of the patty will still be sticky so take care not to rip the burger up whilst flipping. When cooked they should be golden all over and hold their own weight, they shouldn’t be falling apart at all, if they are, they may need cooking longer.

Step 5: Build your burger

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to building a burger, so I’ll leave that part to you. My burger had vintage cheddar, rocket and baby leaf salad leaves and my homemade perfect sugar free ketchup, check the link for the recipe, it’s super easy. Remember how I mentioned in my bean burger recipe that I hadn’t yet ventured into home made bread? Well, this lentil burger does feature homemade wholemeal buns! I’ve chosen not to include the making of the buns here but I will be making more bread recipes soon. Be sure to tell me your perfect burger build in the comments!

Lentil and sweet potato burger variations:

1. Spicy Southwest Twist: Add a kick to your burger by incorporating a blend of southwestern spices such as cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Top with fresh salsa and creamy vegan chipotle mayo for a flavor explosion.
2. Mushroom Umami Upgrade: Enhance the savory profile by mixing finely chopped mushrooms into the burger mixture. The mushrooms add a umami depth, making your vegan patty even more satisfying.

FAQ:

Q: Can I freeze the burger patties for later use?

A: Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, the patties can be individually wrapped and frozen for convenient future use. Ensure they are thoroughly reheated before enjoying.

Q: Can I substitute other lentils for red lentils?

A: While red lentils provide a smoother texture, you can experiment with green or brown lentils for a heartier bite. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What is the best way to serve these burgers?

A: Get creative! Serve on a whole-grain bun with your favourite vegan condiments and toppings, or go bun-less and enjoy over a bed of fresh greens for a carb-conscious option.

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