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Lentil Sloppy Joes

All the saucy, savory flavor of sloppy joes, made with lentils instead of ground beef. Surprisingly hearty and very cheap to make.

Dairy-FreeVegetarianVeganNut-FreeEgg-Free Main Dish
Prep: 5 min Cook: 30 min Total: 35 min Servings: 4-6 Difficulty: Easy

Allergens: Contains wheat (bread/buns). Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-friendly version.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • Bread, buns, or toast for serving

Optional Extras

  • 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Medium pot with lid
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Stirring spoon
  • Can opener

Instructions

  1. Rinse lentils in a strainer and pick out any small stones.
  2. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  3. Add lentils, water, and tomato sauce. Stir together.
  4. If you have sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, or chili powder, add them now.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are soft and the mixture is thick. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if it gets too dry.
  6. Spoon onto bread or buns and serve.

Notes

  • Stretch it further: Mix half lentils and half ground beef for a version that tastes more traditional while going further.
  • Leftovers: Keeps well in the fridge for 4-5 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.
  • Brown lentils work best for this recipe. They break down and get soft, which gives you that sloppy joe texture. Red lentils also work but will get mushier.