Vegan Sloppy Joes | Minimalist Baker Recipes

Worcestershire sauce

🥗Healthier: coconut aminos

💰Cheaper: soy sauce

Coconut aminos is lower in sodium and gluten-free.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: maple syrup

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Maple syrup adds flavor while maintaining sweetness.

hamburger buns

🥗Healthier: whole grain buns

💰Cheaper: white bread

Whole grain buns provide more fiber.

To a small saucepan, add liquid (1 cup water, 1 cup vegetable broth for added flavor) and rinsed green lentils and heat over medium-high heat. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook covered for about 18-22 minutes, or until tender. Drain off any excess liquid and set aside.

In the meantime, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add oil, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Season with a pinch each salt and pepper and stir to combine.

Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, or until the peppers and onions are tender and slightly browned.

Next add tomato sauce, coconut sugar, vegan Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, and paprika (optional). Stir to combine.

Once the lentils are cooked, add them to the skillet as well, and stir to combine.

Continue cooking the mixture over medium-low heat until completely warmed through and thick, stirring occasionally - about 5-10 minutes.

Taste and adjust flavor as needed, adding more chili powder and/or cumin for smokiness, salt for saltiness, coconut sugar for sweetness, or Worcestershire for depth of flavor.

Serve the mixture on toasted buns with sliced onion.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary