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30-Minute Tangy Lentil Sloppy Joes Recipe

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3.8 from 14 reviews

These 30-Minute Tangy Lentil Sloppy Joes offer a delicious, vegetarian twist on a classic comfort food. Made with hearty French lentils simmered to perfection and combined with smoky spices, tangy tomato sauce, and a hint of sweetness, this recipe delivers a flavorful, satisfying meal that's quick to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Lentils

  • 1 cup (215 grams) Dry French Lentils (*see note)
  • 4 cups (815 grams) Water
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (divided)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 cups (245 grams) Yellow Onion (medium diced, about 1 medium onion)
  • 2 cups (230 grams) Green Bell Pepper (medium diced, about 1 large pepper)
  • 2 Large Cloves of Garlic (minced)

Spices & Sauces

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons Chili Powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Smoky Paprika
  • 3 tablespoons Tomato Paste
  • 1 1/2 cups (426 grams) Tomato Sauce (or 1 can)
  • 1 tablespoon Pickle Juice (or other pickling brine like olive)
  • 2 teaspoons Vegan Worcestershire
  • 3 tablespoons Yellow Mustard
  • 2-3 tablespoons Maple Syrup (or more to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (coconut or olive recommended)

Serving

  • Hamburger Buns
  • Pickles, Tabasco, quick pickled onions, jalapeños, extra mustard, coleslaw (optional condiments)

Instructions

  1. Cook the lentils: In a small saucepan, combine the dry French lentils, water, and 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 20 to 22 minutes until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and set the lentils aside.
  2. Sauté vegetables: While the lentils cook, heat the vegetable oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cook on low for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions soften and become translucent. Add the diced green bell pepper in the last 7 to 8 minutes of cooking and continue to soften them, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add spices and flavorings: To the softened onion and bell pepper mixture, add the minced garlic, chili powder, smoky paprika, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly and cook on low for a few minutes to release the flavors. Then, stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, pickle juice, vegan Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and maple syrup. Mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine lentils and simmer: Add the cooked lentils to the pan and stir well to combine all ingredients. Continue cooking on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to warm through and allow the mixture to thicken slightly.
  5. Serve: Spoon the tangy lentil mixture onto warmed hamburger buns. Top with your choice of pickles, Tabasco, quick pickled onions, jalapeños, extra mustard, or coleslaw as desired. Enjoy immediately.
  6. Storage: Store leftover sloppy joe mixture in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for up to two weeks for longer storage.

Notes

  • Use French green lentils for best texture—they hold their shape well after cooking.
  • Adjust maple syrup to your preferred sweetness level.
  • Pickle juice adds a nice tangy flavor; substitute with olive brine if unavailable.
  • To keep this recipe vegan, ensure the Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly.
  • The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your stove and pot.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/30-minute-tangy-lentil-sloppy-joes-recipe/