These delicious sloppy joes are for carnivores and herbivores alike.  Did I mention kids love them?  Wonderfully filling and delicious, these sandwiches are packed with protein, fiber, and lots of flavor.  For more spice, add more chili powder, diced jalapeño, or a dab of hot sauce.  I served mine with Terra Sweets and Beets chips above.  I also like serving with sweet potato fries, but really, this sandwich goes with just about anything.  It lends itself well to freezing, so make double and pack some in the freezer for a rainy day.

The idea for this meal came from Veganomicon, however I added my own twist.  These sloppy joes can easily become soy-free and/or gluten-free by simply finding the appropriate bun.

Click here to download the recipe card:  Vegan Sloppy Joes

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Rinse the lentils and separate any stones that may be present. Put the lentils in a small sauce pot and pour in 4 cups water. Cover and bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until lentils are soft. Drain and set aside.

2. About 10 minutes before the lentils are done boiling, heat a medium stock pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion and pepper in the oil for about 5 minutes, until soft. Add the garlic and sauté another minute.  Add the cooked lentils, the chili powder, paprika, oregano, and salt and mix. Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste and mix. Cook on low heat for 10 minutes.

3. Add the maple syrup, mustard, and liquid smoke. Turn the heat off and let sit for approximately 10 minutes, so that the flavors can meld.

Serves 6.  300 calories per serving.

Did you make this recipe?
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and share a picture using #gingerveganista on Instagram and tag @TheGingerVeganista or Twitter and tag @GingerVeganista or Facebook and tag The Ginger Veganista.  Can’t wait to hear from you