Horse-free Halloumi Burgers

If you've been put off by reports in the press today about what may. or may not, be lurking in your burgers from the supermarket, why not simply make your own meat-free versions.  I'm not a veggie myself, but I really love these.

Recipe for: HALLOUMI & SWEET POTATO BURGERS (V)

Ingredients: 

• 450g sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into chunks
• 175g broccoli florets (optional)
• 2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 red chillies, deseeded, finely chopped
• 175g halloumi cheese, grated
• 2 tblsp wholemeal flour
• 2-3 tblsp sunflower oil
• 450g onions, sliced
• 1 tblsp chopped fresh coriander

Method: 

1. cook the sweet potatoes in lightly salted water for 15 minutes or until tender.  Drain & mash, placing into a large bowl
2. cook the broccoli, if using, for 3 minutes.  Drain & refresh in cold water (to retain colour & texture).  Drain & add to the sweet potatoes
3. stir in the garlic, red onion, chillies, halloumi, salt & pepper.  Mix well & shape into 6-8 patties or burgers.
4. coat in flour then put in the fridge to chill for an hour or two
5. when ready to serve, heat half the oil in heavy frying-pan.  Add the sliced onions & sweat gently for 15 minutes or so, without browning.  Stir in the coriander.  Set aside.
6. add the remaining oil to another pan.  Fry the burgers over a medium heat for 5-6 minutes each side
7. when almost ready, add the onions/ coriander to the pan.  Warm through & serve.

What else you need to know: 

1. these make a delicious vegetarian meal accompanied by a sweet chillie dipping sauce and a green salad
2. they do not contain any horse