Spiced Black Bean Burgers with Caramelized Onions over Coconut Sweet Potato Mash:

Ingredients:

For the Spiced Black Bean Burgers:

2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired)

1/4 cup grated carrot (optional, for added texture)

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp ground coriander

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

1 egg (or a flax egg for a vegan option)

2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Caramelized Onions:

2 large onions, thinly sliced

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for added sweetness)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Coconut Sweet Potato Mash:

3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)

1 tbsp coconut oil (or butter)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: pinch of cinnamon for added warmth

---

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coconut Sweet Potato Mash:

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cubed sweet potatoes. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.

Add the coconut milk, coconut oil (or butter), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy. You can add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor, but this is optional.

Keep warm and set aside.

2. Caramelize the Onions:

While the sweet potatoes cook, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pan.

Add the sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and cook slowly for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and soft. If desired, add balsamic vinegar in the last few minutes for extra sweetness and depth of flavor.

Set aside once done.

3. Make the Spiced Black Bean Burgers:

In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture. You can also use a food processor for a finer texture, but don’t over-process—it’s nice to have some chunks.

Add the grated carrot (if using), chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cayenne (if using), egg (or flax egg), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until it holds together.

Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape them into patties.

4. Cook the Black Bean Burgers:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Remove the burgers from the skillet and set aside.

5. Assemble the Dish:

On each plate, place a generous scoop of the coconut sweet potato mash.

Top with a spiced black bean burger patty.

Pile the caramelized onions on top of the burger.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve as is or with a side of greens for added freshness.