Lentil Sloppy Joes

embracing the sloppy…

Since switching to a plant-based diet in 2013 (with occasional dairy, eggs or fish), I’ve been asked more times than I can count if I miss meat.  The answer?  Not anymore.  When I changed my diet, I made the decision not to compare veggies to meat, nor did I try to find meat alternatives. I wasn’t going to try to recreate the flavor of meat in a veggie dish.  It just wouldn’t be the same and I’d probably walk away from this lifestyle very disappointed.  I’m thankful God gave me the wisdom to do this and really believe it is why I have been able to stick with a vegetarian lifestyle all these years.  I also believe it’s why I get so excited to create plant-based recipes.

(Side note: I’m sharing this to encourage those that have struggled with staying on a plant-based diet. It’s not always easy for me either, but we can choose to embrace the sloppy parts of this beautiful journey that ultimately make us stronger.  If it is your heart to live this lifestyle, maybe all you need is a little change of perspective and some grace. I am rooting for you!!)

Now about those joes…

With that said, there are times I enjoy biting into a hearty sandwich or burger…  this is where lentils come in. As mentioned in a previous post lentils are a great sub for meat when it comes to bulk and texture… especially in these fantastic lentil sloppy joes.  These are seriously delicious!

** Gluten free friends! This recipe calls for a small amount of Worcestershire sauce.  For a vegan/gluten free option, you might want to try this: https://amzn.to/2RrlRSg

I’d love to get some recommendations on GF hamburger buns??  Please comment below.

For those that do eat gluten and are looking for a healthier hamburger bun, this brand did not disappoint: https://amzn.to/32m8fhk. I would’ve preferred these but used the unseeded version to be kid friendly.

Topped with some mustard and dairy free coleslaw (see recipe below) and a side of baked sweet potato fries, these sloppy joes make a casual and easy dinner.

Lentil Sloppy Joes

September 13, 2020

Servings: 6

Difficulty: Easy

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A familiar favorite with a plant-based twist.

By: Lisa

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water (or more as needed)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 3 oz tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, broth or water for saute
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup chopped onion
• ¼ cup chopped bell pepper
• 1-2 splashes of Worcestershire sauce (make sure to find vegan if strictly plant based and GF for those that can't tolerate gluten).
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hamburger buns

Directions

• Step 1 In a medium saucepan, add lentils, bay leaf, chili powder, onion powder and 2 cups vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then turn down to medium-low. Adding more liquid as needed.
• Step 2 While lentils are cooking, chop onion and peppers.
• Step 3 In a saute pan, over medium-high heat, add olive oil (sub broth or water for oil free option). Add minced garlic, saute for a minute, add peppers and onions and cook until onions are translucent. Remove from burner and set aside.
• Step 4 When lentils are tender and most liquid is absorbed, reduce heat to low and smash lentils with a fork or potato masher.
• Step 5 Add sautéed veggies, Worcestershire sauce, maple syrup, tomato paste and another ½ cup water if needed. Add salt, pepper and after taste test add a dash more garlic powder, onion powder and chili powder (if needed).
• Step 6 Scoop onto hamburger bun.
• Step 7 Serving suggestions: Top with mustard and/or coleslaw and serve with a side of sweet potato fries. Dairy free coleslaw recipe below.

Dairy-free coleslaw

September 13, 2020

Servings: (4-6) as sloppy joes topping

Difficulty: Easy

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Pairs well with Lentil Sloppy Joes

By: Lisa

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups shredded cabbage
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1/2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon celery seed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Step 1 Except for cabbage, whisk together all ingredients. Mix into cabbage, refrigerate until ready to serve.