Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked green lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 medium yellow onion , finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper , finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic , finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 (15oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1-2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- pinch of salt and pepper to taste
- for serving: gluten-free hamburger buns
Optional Toppings
- cabbage slaw
- pickles
- shredded carrots
- thinly sliced onions
- green leaf lettuce
- avocado
Instructions
- Prepare the lentils: start by rinsing the lentils with cold water in a mesh strainer. Then combine the lentils with the water in a saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Then drain the lentils and set aside.
- While the lentils are cooking, prepare the base for the sloppy joes. Start by heating a large skillet (I prefer cast iron) over medium heat. Add the olive oil, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to stir frequently for about 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften and turn slightly brown. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Next, add the chili powder, paprika, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and maple syrup. Stir to combine, turn the heat down to medium- low, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked lentils and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes to develop the flavor.
- Serve the mixture on toasted buns with your favorite accompaniments.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!