Sloppy Lentils

Elevate your plant-based dining with Sloppy Lentils, a hearty and flavorful vegan twist on the classic sloppy joes. Packed with protein-rich brown or green lentils simmered in a smoky, tangy tomato sauce infused with soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness, this recipe delivers bold flavors in every bite. Sautéed garlic, onion, and red bell pepper add depth, while smoked paprika and chili powder bring a satisfying heat. Toasted burger buns serve as the perfect base, and optional toppings like pickles, shredded lettuce, or vegan cheese let you customize to your heart’s content. Ready in just 45 minutes, Sloppy Lentils are a quick and wholesome comfort food ideal for weeknight meals or casual gatherings. Perfect for vegan and vegetarian diets, this recipe will be your go-to for crowd-pleasing plant-based goodness!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown or green lentils
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 pieces burger buns or bread rolls
• 0 as desired optional toppings (e.g., pickles, shredded lettuce, vegan cheese)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

While the lentils are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 6

Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.

Step 7

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Stir to combine.

Step 8

Season the mixture with smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken and develop its flavor.

Step 9

Fold the cooked lentils into the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 10

Toast the burger buns or bread rolls, if desired.

Step 11

Spoon the Sloppy Lentil mixture onto the buns and add optional toppings like pickles, shredded lettuce, or vegan cheese for extra flavor.

Step 12

Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful plant-based Sloppy Lentils!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1322.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1476.2

Total Fat 29.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3562.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 261.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.3g	0%
Total Sugars 61.3g
Protein 52.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 424.3mg	0%
Iron 22.1mg	0%
Potassium 2975.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 17.3%

Protein: 13.9%

Carbs: 68.8%