Lentil Sloppy Joes are a delicious, versatile, inexpensive, and easy recipe. Who doesn’t love that? It can be made on the stove, crockpot, or instant pot. They turn out delicious every time!
Ingredients
I remember having sloppy joes as a child. My mom would fry up some ground, something-or-other, then throw in a can of the traditional sloppy joes sauce and serve. Okay, it was easy but not all that tasty. Sorry, mom. Not anymore, I’ve created a simple healthy version of an easy family dinner.
This lentil sloppy joes recipe is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, plant-based foodies, and allergy-friendly families. But don’t think for a minute that only plant-based veggie lovers will enjoy this dish. Those that eat meat may be surprised by the richly satisfying flavors and texture of lentils. Try out this recipe for a perfect Meatless Monday!
Plant-based meat-replacement options
Lentil sloppy joes can be made in several different ways. With lentils, obviously, it is an easy whole-food option. But if you want more of a traditional sloppy joe fry up some plant-based ground meat then add in the homemade sauce. Not as healthy as lentils but definitely a yummy option. Read the label for any allergy issues.
- Beyond meat; soy and gluten-free
- Lifelight, soy and gluten-free
- Before the Butcher, gluten-free but contain soy
Lentils are an excellent source of protein
What are lentils? They are legumes, essentially small beans. Not only are lentils cheap, but they are also an exceptionally nutritious superfood. They’re packed with plant protein, iron, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, folate, niacin and rich in fiber. Nutrition facts.org has some interesting information on legumes, lentils.
This is a great main dish, especially for kids, outdoor parties, picnics, and celebrations. Great with macaroni salad, bok choy salad, chopped quinoa salad just about any plant-based side dish you can think of. Fun for everyone!
Tips & tricks to keeping it simple
- Use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce (preferably vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly) instead of making our homemade version in the recipe
- Buy pre-cooked lentils, usually found in the produce section, and toss them with your sauce and “ta-da!” dinner is served.
Spoon the Lentil Sloppy Joes onto your favorite bread, bun, lettuce cup, or baked potato. The options are endless.
This is a recipe that will become a new family favorite. Kids, adults, vegans or not will love this hearty meal.
In short, have fun in the kitchen, don’t take yourself too seriously. Subscribe, share, and let me know how “YOU” made it your own. Share your positive comments and suggestions. ❤️ from VGFL.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked green lentils* 1.5 cups dry = 3 cups cooked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup sweet onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 15 oz can chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup gluten-free beer or vegan beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2-3/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses or agave nectar if you don't have the blackstrap molasses
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce gluten-free and vegan
- salt and pepper to taste
- green onion or cilantro chopped for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Rinse lentils before cooking.
- Bring lentils and 4.5 cups of water or stock in a large saucepan to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
- While the lentils are cooking, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the onions and minced garlic. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Then stir in all remaining ingredients to the onions and garlic. Cook on medium-low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drain cooked lentils and stir into sauce mixture. Add more beer/broth, if needed, for desired consistency. Cook for 30 minutes over medium heat, stir occasionally to prevent burning or sticking. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve on gluten free buns, baked potatoes, you decide.
- Garnish with green onions or chopped cilantro.
Notes
- Buy pre-cooked lentils, usually found in produce section.
- Use your favorite bbq sauce instead of the homemade sauce
- In a medium-large sauce pan put the lentils and sauce together and heat up. Dinner is served!
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