Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Mini Lentil Sloppy Joes:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics, providing a base of flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that essential aromatic kick.
- 1 red or green bell pepper, finely chopped: Lends sweetness, color, and a slight crunch.
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed: The star of the show, providing a hearty, “meaty” texture. Avoid red lentils as they tend to get too mushy.
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth: The cooking liquid for the lentils, infusing them with flavor.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Forms the rich, tomatoey base of the sloppy joe sauce.
- ¼ cup ketchup: Adds a classic tangy sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: For concentrated tomato flavor and to help thicken the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (ensure vegetarian/vegan if needed): Adds umami and complexity. Many brands contain anchovies, so check labels for a plant-based version.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Provides a bright tanginess to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or maple syrup for vegan): Adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a wonderful smoky depth.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste): For a gentle warmth.
- ½ teaspoon dried mustard powder: Adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the sauce.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- 12–16 mini slider buns or small dinner rolls: The perfect vessel for your sloppy joe mixture.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Mini Lentil Sloppy Joes:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Bloom Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, and mustard powder. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This step, known as “blooming,” intensifies their flavor.
- Add Lentils and Liquids: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (or maple syrup) to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a splash more vegetable broth or water.
- Check and Adjust Seasoning: Once the lentils are tender, uncover the skillet. The sauce should have thickened nicely. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, a pinch more sugar for sweetness, or a dash more vinegar for tang.
- Rest (Optional but Recommended): If you have time, let the lentil sloppy joe mixture sit off the heat for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
- Assemble Mini Joes: Lightly toast your slider buns if desired. Spoon a generous amount of the lentil sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Place the top half of the bun on top.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your Mini Lentil Sloppy Joes warm and enjoy the delicious, messy goodness!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 350