This easy-to-follow, 30-minute vegan sloppy joe recipe is made with green lentils, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. Smoky, savory, and slightly sweet, this plant-based dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Add 2 cups of water and rinsed green lentils to a small saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches a low boil.
2
Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 18-22 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Drain off any excess liquid and set aside.
3
While the lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion, garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper, stirring to combine.
4
Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the peppers and onions are tender and slightly browned.
5
Add the tomato sauce, coconut sugar, vegan Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6
Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir, combining everything. Cook over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warmed through and thick.
7
Adjust flavor as needed, adding more chili powder or cumin for smokiness, salt for saltiness, coconut sugar for sweetness, or Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
8
Lightly toast the hamburger buns in the oven or on a pan.
9
Serve the lentil mixture on the toasted buns with additional sliced onion on top, if desired.
10
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding water or vegetable broth if needed to moisten the mixture.