Canned Lentil Sloppy Joes

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5 from 2 votes

This canned lentil sloppy joes recipe is a delicious and hearty vegetarian take on classic sloppy joes! Loaded with fresh veggies, herbs, and spices, these delicious lentil sandwiches are simmered in a sweet and smoky tomato sauce.

Cook Time25

Total Time25

Course: Dinner, Sandwich

Cuisine: American

Servings: sandwiches

Calories: 160kcal

Author: Kelly Jensen

Cost: $2

Equipment

Large Cooking Pot

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 Red Onion chopped plus extra for garnish
3 cloves garlic
1 green bell pepper chopped
14 ounces crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce use a vegan version
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 14 ounce cans lentils
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
8 Hamburger Buns

Instructions

In a large pan, add the olive oil and onions, and sauté for5 to 6 minutes. Add the garlic and bell pepper and sauté for 4 more minutes until the pepper begins to soften.
Add the crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar.
Open can of lentils, drain, and rinse under cool water.
Add the lentils to the tomato mixture and stir well to combine. Add brown sugar, chili powder, onion powder, cumin, and black pepper. Cover and sauté on low what for 15 minutes until peppers are soft. Taste, and add salt and pepper if needed.
Toast buns, and add a generous scoop of sloppy joe mixture to the buns. Top with fresh chopped onion and enjoy!

Notes

Sloppy Joe Topping Ideas

Onions - I like using sliced yellow or red onions, or making a big batch of spicy pickled onions for extra flavor!

Pickles - you can add sliced dill pickles or even bread and butter sweet pickles to this sandwich.

Lettuce and Tomato - for classic sandwich vibes. I also like using baby spinach or arugula when I have some on hand.

Nutrition