Lentil Sloppy Joes

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (vegan if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Hamburger buns
• Optional toppings: sliced pickles, red onion, shredded lettuce

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

3. Add chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are softened.

4. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Stir in cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, maple syrup or brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

6. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the mixture thickens.

7. Adjust seasoning to taste.

8. Toast the hamburger buns if desired.

9. Spoon the lentil mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.

10. Top with optional toppings such as sliced pickles, red onion, and shredded lettuce.

11. Place the top half of the bun on each Lentil Sloppy Joe.

12. Serve these plant-based Sloppy Joes with your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy a wholesome and flavorful meal that satisfies your comfort food cravings!