Smoky Sweet Potato Burgers with Roasted Garlic Cream

Ingredients

2 c. yams, coarsely mashed

2 bulbs garlic, roasted

1 c. cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/3 c. panko bread crumbs

1/3 c. oat flour (or all-purpose, wheat, etc.)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1-1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/8 tsp. cumin

2-3 tbsp. olive oil

1 avocado

2/3 c. plain Greek yogurt

1 tsp. maple syrup

Salt and pepper, to taste (for cream)

Whole wheat buns

Directions

To Roast Garlic

Cut off the top of the garlic head. Take off most of the paper. Pour about a teaspoon of olive oil on the garlic head and let it soak. Roast in the oven for about 45 minutes.

For the Garlic Cream

Combine yogurt with 2 bulbs (squeezed out) of roasted garlic cloves, maple syrup and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a blender or food processor. Process until smooth then set aside until ready to use.

For the Burgers

Pierce potatoes (I used 2 large) all over with a fork and place on a paper towel, setting in the microwave. Microwave for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for 5 minutes more. Remove, slice in half and let cool until you can scoop out the flesh.

In a large bowl, coarsely mash beans with a fork. Add in sweet potato and mash together, then add in spices, salt and pepper, minced garlic, egg, panko and flour. Mix together until combined, then place bowl in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This helps form them into patties, but as a warning they are still somewhat messy.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Remove mixture from fridge and form into 4 equal patties, then place in the skillet once hot. Since the mixture can be wet and messy, do not move until they are fully cooked and golden on one side! This takes about 5-6 minutes. Then, add more oil if needed (this really helps cook them) and flip burgers very gently. Cook for another 5-6 minutes. Toast buns if desired.

Assemble by topping burgers with roasted garlic cream and avocado!