Yellow Burgers?

Do you know what glycemic index is? For most of us at the peak of health, such medical jargon would neither ring a bell nor catch interest. But for those diagnosed as diabetics, not knowing what it is spells big trouble. Why? Glycemic Index or GI is the term used for the measure of the effects of carbohydrates on blood sugar level. And with the need to closely and religiously monitor the latter because of the havoc wreaked by diabetes, there really is no justifiable reason to allow oneself be left in the dark.

I keep three copies of a comprehensive list of foods with nutritional analysis, including glycemic index, at the ready: One I posted by the kitchen, another I keep in my work desk, and the third one folded neatly between the pages of my prayer book in my bag. Also, I keep a compilation of recipes arranged neatly in a folder, which I use as a reference every once in a while, just in case I need some fresh recipe ideas for Joani's meals.

One veggie recipe that I have grown fond of is “Yellow Burgers.” Why yellow? Yellow because instead of ground beef, this recipe calls for summer squash and carrots. Though a vegetarian delight that is both a sight for sore eyes and a pleasure to the taste buds, these burgers were met with suspicion when Joani first laid her eyes on them. But upon taking a bite, she was totally smitten. Since squash is the primary ingredient for these burgers, it is good for diabetics. With a GI of 15, squash ranks among the veggies that diabetics can indulge in without fear. Mixed with carrots, which also has low GI(39), this veggie burger is packed with nutrients, especially Vitamin A and C. So...Without further ado, here is the recipe below. 

Yellow Burgers(aka Summer Squash Patties)

1 summer squash grated

4 big carrots grated

1 Vidalia onion(sweet) chopped

A small bunch of green or Welsh onions chopped(white part discarded)

1 egg

2 cups of flour

1/8 tsp. iodized salt

1/4^th tsp. pepper

½ beef boullion cube grated/pulverized

1/8 stick of non-fat or low-fat butter
¼ cup olive oil

Procedure:

It's quite simple. In a bowl just combine the first nine ingredients well. Heat a non-stick pan and melt the butter with olive oil. Make small thin patties and fry. Make sure that the patties are spaced evenly to prevent sticking together while promoting even cooking for each. Flip once when golden brown. Serve hot with catchup or barbecue sauce and a salad of fresh greens on the side.