Spiced Carrot & Chickpea Burgers with Creamy Coconut Tahini Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Burgers:

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup grated carrots
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup chopped red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon coriander powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Coconut Tahini Sauce:

• ¼ cup tahini
• ¼ cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Make the Burgers: In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, carrots, oats, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mash with a fork until well combined but still slightly chunky.

2. Shape and Cook: Form the mixture into 4 patties. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.

3. Make the Sauce: While the burgers are cooking, whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.

4. Serve: Place the cooked patties on toasted buns (or your favorite base), top with the creamy coconut tahini sauce, and add any desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, or avocado.