• Sweet Potato: 1 large (about 1 lb or 450g), scrubbed clean. The star of the show, providing moisture, natural sweetness, and binding.
• Black Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, or 1 ¾ cups cooked. Make sure to rinse them very well and pat them as dry as possible. This is critical for texture.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, plus more for cooking. Used to sauté the aromatics and cook the burgers.
• Yellow Onion: ½ a medium onion, finely chopped. Adds a foundational savory flavor.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. For that essential aromatic kick.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: ¾ cup. These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, creating a better texture. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free panko or ¾ cup of oat flour.
• Smoked Paprika: 1 ½ teaspoons. This provides a deep, smoky flavor that is absolutely essential. Don’t substitute with regular or sweet paprika if you can help it.
• Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds warmth and a mild, complex spice flavor.
• Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon. Lends an earthy, warm flavor that pairs perfectly with black beans.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground.
• Optional Flavor Boosters: 1 teaspoon of vegan Worcestershire sauce or ½ teaspoon of liquid smoke for an extra “meaty,” smoky dimension.
