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Lentil Sloppy Joes (Vegan)

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Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Lentil Sloppy Joes (Vegan)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 yellow oniondiced

1 bell pepperfinely diced

2 cloves garlicminced

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 ½ cups cooked lentilsor 1 can, drained

1 cup tomato sauce

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tbsp mustardyellow or Dijon

1 tbsp soy sauceor tamari for gluten-free

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp chili powderoptional for a kick

Salt & pepperto taste

Optional toppings: vegan cheese, pickled onions, sliced avocado, shredded lettuce

Burger buns or sandwich rolls

Instructions

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Instructions

Sauté veggies: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Add tomato paste + seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Stir in lentils and sauce: Add the cooked lentils, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until thickened and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Assemble: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto toasted buns. Add toppings if desired (vegan cheese slices melt great here!).

Notes

Freezer instructions: Let the lentil filling cool completely. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Nutrition

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Caramelize Your Aromatics 🧅
Take 5-7 minutes to properly caramelize the onions and garlic over medium heat before adding other ingredients—this builds a deep, savory foundation that makes the difference between good and exceptional sloppy joes.
Bloom Your Spices in Oil 🌶️
Toast the chili powder and smoked paprika in the hot oil for 30 seconds before adding tomato paste to unlock their full flavor potential and prevent a raw, bitter taste.
Reduce Your Sauce Properly 💧
Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes after combining ingredients to allow excess moisture to evaporate, creating a thick, clingy sauce that coats the lentils rather than a soupy consistency that slides off your bun.
Layer Your Umami Flavors 🔑
Use both soy sauce and tomato paste together—the soy adds savory depth while the tomato provides acidity and sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile that mimics traditional meat-based sloppy joes.
Toast Your Buns Before Serving 🍞
Lightly butter and toast your burger buns just before serving to create a protective barrier that prevents sogginess and adds a subtle richness that elevates the entire dish.