An easy vegetarian and vegan burger recipe alternative, quick and easy to make in a blender, they cook in 4 minutes flat, and can be easily adapted for most diets. They’re spicy, filling and incredibly delicious!
- FOR THE BURGERS:
- 400 g can chickpeas , drained and rinsed
- 340 g kidney beans , drained and rinsed
- 1 cup kale , no stalks
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp plain flour, heaped , extra for dusting
- sea salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp sesame oil , or olive oil
- FOR THE TAHINI SAUCE:
- 3 tbsp Greek yoghurt , or plain yoghurt
- 2 tsp tahini , heaped
- 2 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- TO ASSEMBLE:
- 1 small head lettuce of your choice
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper , finely sliced
- 4 wholewheat burger buns , toasted if you like (you will like!!)
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TO MAKE THE BURGERS:
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Place the chickpeas, kidney beans, kale, paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, lemon zest, flour, salt and sesame oil in a blender or food processor and pulse until combined but not smooth (you want some texture).
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On a lightly floured surface, divide the mixture into 4 equal pieces and shape them with your hands into round patties, about 2cm thick. Pop them on a plate and place them in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
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In a large frying pan, heat the sesame oil and fry the patties for 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
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Meanwhile, prepare your tahini sauce and toast the burger buns (optional).
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TO MAKE THE TAHINI SAUCE:
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In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well.
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TO ASSEMBLE:
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Place a nice dollop of the tahini sauce on the base of each bun and spread to the edges. Top with the burgers, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced red pepper, lettuce leaves and another dollop of sauce if you like and then the bun tops.
- This recipe looks long, but it’s really very quick and easy! When you have made the burgers once, you will only need to glance at the recipe the next time.
- These burgers can be baked, just place them on a baking sheet and bake them at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or until golden, or grill them with a little oil at your next braai / barbeque.
- They go well with any accompaniments, so go crazy and add all your favourite healthy toppings!
Please note: The calories stated are for the burgers only and not the toppings.
