Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes
Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with protein-rich lentils and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this hearty dish serves up a burst of flavors with every bite. Smothered in a savory, tangy sauce and piled high on soft, toasted wholewheat buns, these Sloppy Joes are perfect for a cozy dinner or a tasty meal prep option.
vegansandwichesdinnerquick and easylow fatprotein richcomfort foodhealthymain coursevegetarian
15m 40m 2 0
Ingredients
- brown lentils (1 cup) - rinsed and drained
- water (2 cups)
- olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- diced onion (1 medium)
- minced garlic cloves (3 )
- tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
- diced tinned tomatoes (1.5 cups)
- soy sauce (1 tablespoons)
- smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
- ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
- black pepper (0.5 teaspoon)
- chopped fresh parsley (2 teaspoons) - for garnish
- diced red bell pepper (1 medium)
- maple syrup (1 tablespoons)
- toasted wholewheat burger buns (2 pieces)
Instructions
Cook the lentils
- In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Drain any remaining water and set aside.
Sauté vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Make the sauce
- Add tomato paste to the skillet and stir to coat the vegetables.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, maple syrup, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper.
- Simmer the mixture on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combine lentils and sauce
- Stir the cooked lentils into the sauce mixture in the skillet.
- Simmer everything together for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Assemble and serve
- Divide the lentil mixture evenly between the toasted burger buns.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
- Ensure your lentils are cooked but not mushy for the best texture.
- Feel free to add hot sauce or chili flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
- If you like a slightly sweeter Sloppy Joe, increase the maple syrup to taste.
- Try switching up the vegetables by adding diced carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to complete the meal.