This Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes recipe is a hearty and delicious plant-based alternative to the traditional meat-based dish. Made with lentils, textured soy protein, and a perfect blend of spices, it’s a high protein, high fiber meal that’s quick and easy to prepare in your Instant Pot. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food in a healthier, vegan-friendly way.
Ingredients:
Yellow Onion (1, diced): This is the recipe’s base, providing a savory and sweet flavor profile. Onions are a great source of Vitamin C and fiber.
Green or Brown Lentils (1 cup): Lentils are a great plant-based protein and fiber source. They also give a hearty texture to the recipe.
Textured Soy Protein (1 cup): Also known as TVP or TSP, this is another source of plant-based protein. It gives a meaty texture to the dish. You can use an extra cup of lentils if you can’t find TVP or TSP.
Tomato Sauce (1 cup): This gives the recipe its tangy tomato flavor and forms the base of the sloppy joe sauce.
Chili Powder (1 tablespoon): Adds a spicy kick to the recipe. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred level of spiciness.
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): This adds a smoky flavor to the recipe.
Onion Powder (1/2 tablespoon): Enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the dish.
Black Pepper (a pinch): Adds a bit of heat and enhances the other flavors in the dish.
Salt (a sprinkle): Enhances the flavors of the dish. You can also use liquid aminos for a different flavor profile.
Maple Syrup (1/4 cup): Adds a sweetness to balance the savory and spicy flavors.
Veggie Broth (2 cups): This is used to cook the lentils and TVP. You can also use water.
Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy flavor to the recipe and helps balance out the maple syrup’s sweetness.
Toppings (optional):
Pickles: Adds a crunchy texture and a tangy flavor.
Red Onion: Adds a bit of sharpness and color to the dish.
Mustard: Adds a tangy, spicy flavor.
Whole Wheat Buns: To serve the sloppy joes on. They add a hearty, whole-grain element to the meal.
Making The Lentil Sloppy Joe
Preparing the Ingredients:
First, dice your yellow onion and measure out all your other ingredients. This includes lentils, textured soy protein, tomato sauce, spices, maple syrup, veggie broth, and apple cider vinegar.
Combining the Ingredients:
Next, add all your ingredients to your Instant Pot. This includes diced onion, lentils, textured soy protein, tomato sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, maple syrup, veggie broth, and apple cider vinegar.
Stirring the Mixture:
Once all the ingredients are in the Instant Pot, give everything a good stir to make sure it’s all well combined. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Setting the Instant Pot:
Now that your ingredients are all mixed, it’s time to cook them. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Then, press the manual high-pressure setting and set the timer for 15 minutes.
Waiting for the Instant Pot:
Once you’ve set the timer, let the Instant Pot do its thing. You don’t need to do anything during this time.
Natural Release:
After the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally. You don’t manually release the pressure but let it come down. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Final Stir:
Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and give your lentil sloppy joe mixture another good stir. This will help any remaining ingredients to be fully incorporated.
Serving the Sloppy Joes:
Now your lentil sloppy joes are ready to serve. Spoon the mixture onto whole wheat buns and add your favorite toppings. Some suggestions are pickles, red onion, and mustard.
And there you have it – a delicious, plant-based version of a classic comfort food. Enjoy your vegan lentil sloppy joes!
FAQs
Can I use any type of lentils for this recipe?
This recipe works best with green or brown lentils. Red lentils tend to get mushy and may not hold up well in this recipe.
What can I use instead of Textured Soy Protein?
If you can’t find Textured Soy Protein, you can use an extra cup of lentils. The texture will be slightly different, but the dish will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe on the stove if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this on the stove. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time and keep an eye on the lentils to make sure they don’t become overcooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free buns and ensure your veggie broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftover lentil sloppy joes?
Yes, this recipe freezes well. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in a saucepan over medium heat.
What other toppings can I use for these sloppy joes?
You can top these sloppy joes with any of your favorite toppings. Some suggestions include avocado, vegan cheese, lettuce, or coleslaw.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can use any sweetener you prefer. Agave nectar or brown sugar would also work well in this recipe.
Quick & Easy Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes
This Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes recipe is a plant-based take on a classic comfort food. Made in the Instant Pot, it's quick, easy, and packed full of nutrients.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 diced Yellow Onion
- 1 cup Green or Brown Lentils
- 1 cup Textured Soy Protein
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- A pinch of Black Pepper
- A sprinkle of Salt
- 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
- 2 cups Veggie Broth
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
- Whole Wheat Buns, Pickles, Red Onion, and Mustard for serving
Instructions
- Dice the onion and add to the Instant Pot.
- Add lentils, textured soy protein, tomato sauce, spices, maple syrup, veggie broth, and apple cider vinegar.
- Stir ingredients and set Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
- After cooking, allow for a natural release.
- Stir again before serving on whole wheat buns with your choice of toppings.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
per serving
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 350 kcalTotal Fat: 3gSodium: 500mgCarbohydrates: 55gFiber: 15gSugar: 15gProtein: 20g
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