Millet and Hemp Seed Veggie Burgers

I love making meals that are both delicious and healthy, like these Millet and Hemp Seed Veggie Burgers. Whole grain millet is gluten-free and a "smart carb" with lots of fiber and low simple sugars. It's also a good source of some important nutrients such as copper, manganese, phosphorus and magnesium. And hemp seeds are a complete protein and rich in B vitamins, dietary minerals, iron and dietary fiber. And to round out the taste, the veggie burgers are seasoned with some flavorful Indian spices, including turmeric. Turmeric has been used in India both as a spice and medicinal herb for thousands of years. Enjoy these burgers on buns or on top of greens or grains?? Make a double batch and freeze leftovers.

Yields: 7 burgers (1/2 cup each)

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cups dry whole grain millet (to yield 1 1/2 cups cooked)
• 1 cup kale, finely chopped
• 1 Tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 cup hemp seeds
• 1/2 cup dried bread crumbs
• 2 Tbsp diced sweet yellow onions
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground pepper
• 1 egg, lightly whisked
• Olive oil 

Directions:

1. Add millet to dry saucepan and toast over medium heat for 3 minutes, stirring regularly to ensure they don't burn. Add 1 1/2 cups of salted water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine millet, kale, coconut oil, hemp seeds, bread crumbs, onions and spices; mix well. Add egg and mix until thoroughly combined.
3. Form mixture into 7 patties, using 1/2 cup of mixture per patty.
4. Lightly coat a large cast iron (or similar) skillet with olive oil. Add veggie burgers and cook over medium-high heat about 10 minutes on each side, or until heated through. Serve on a bun or on top of salad greens or grain.