Delicious Homemade Vegetarian Sloppy Joes

Enjoy a meatless twist on the classic sloppy joes with this vegetarian version. Packed with wholesome ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and flavorful spices, these sloppy joes are savory, satisfying, and a breeze to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, these vegetarian sloppy joes are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian variety, if desired)
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 hamburger buns

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Drain any excess water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
5. While the sloppy joe filling is simmering, toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or under the broiler until lightly browned.
6. To serve, spoon the sloppy joe filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half and press gently to secure.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

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