Vegan Sloppy Joes

Vegan Sloppy Joes

from eatingbirdfood.com
40 min

Enjoy a plant-based version of a childhood classic with these vegan sloppy joes. Lentils simmer in a sweet and smoky tomato sauce and then are piled on a bun for a quick and easy meatless meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • ½ cup dry brown or green lentils
  • 1 ⅓ cup water
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
  • 1 orange or red bell pepper (diced)
  • 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup diced mushrooms
  • 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 Tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
  • 4 whole grain buns (toasted)
  • Toppings: onions (pickles and/or coleslaw)

Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare lentils by rinsing them and adding to a pot with water and a bay leaf. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat down and simmer covered until most of the liquid is absorbed and lentils are tender (about 15-20 minutes). Remove from heat, discard the bay leaf, drain any excess liquid and set the lentils aside to cool. This step can be done in advance.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic and mushrooms and sauté for 7-10 minutes, until softened.

  3. 3

    Add the cooked lentils, tomato sauce, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

  4. 4

    Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

  5. 5

    Serve the sloppy joe mixture on toasted buns with toppings of choice. Enjoy!