Plant-based Sloppy Joes

textured vegetable protein

🥗Healthier: mushrooms

💰Cheaper: lentils

Lentils provide a budget-friendly protein source while maintaining texture.

burger buns

🥗Healthier: whole grain buns

💰Cheaper: white bread

White bread is often cheaper but less nutritious.

Place 1 cup dried lentils into a strainer and rinse with cold water.

Transfer rinsed lentils to a saucepan and pour in 2 cups vegetable broth.

Bring lentils to a light simmer, cover with a lid cocked, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

While lentils are simmering, dice 1 cup red bell pepper, 1/2 cup onion, and grate 1 cup carrot.

In a pan, heat 1 teaspoon oil (or use water for an oil-free version) to sauté the vegetables.

Add diced red pepper, onion, and grated carrot to the warm oil or water and sauté for about 7-8 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Add 1 and 1/2 teaspoons paprika, 1 and 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon finely ground sea salt, and a dash of black pepper to the sautéed vegetables and mix well for about 2 minutes.

Stir in 1 and 1/2 cups tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons mustard, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, mixing until combined and warm.

Gently fold in the cooked lentils with the sauce using a spatula or wooden spoon, and remove from heat to prevent further cooking.

Serve the lentil sloppy joes on gluten-free rolls, wraps, or pasta, and top with scallions for added crunch.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens