Smoky Lentil Sloppy Joes with Pickled Red Onions
Looking for a plant-based version of a classic comfort food? These smoky lentil sloppy joes are just what you need. Packed with flavor and texture, this dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Pickled red onions for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils: In a pot, add lentils and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain excess water if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Mix the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and cooked lentils. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Spoon the lentil mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, and top with pickled red onions.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches with the top half of the buns, serve warm, and enjoy your smoky lentil sloppy joes.
Cook’s tips
- Don't overcook the lentils; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
- Toast the buns lightly to add a nice crunch and prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the smoked paprika to your taste—start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you like it smokier.
- Let the mixture simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Substitutions
- Use canned lentils (about 2 cups) to save time—just rinse and drain before adding.
- Swap barbecue sauce for a mix of 2 tablespoons tomato paste and 1 tablespoon molasses for a homemade smoky sweet sauce.
- Use any color bell pepper—red, yellow, or orange for a milder flavor, or green for a bit more bite.
- Substitute pickled red onions with quick-pickled shallots or even regular sliced red onions for a milder tang.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free hamburger buns or lettuce wraps.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover lentil mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or vegetable broth, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
FAQ
Can I make the lentil mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lentil mixture up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the fridge and simply reheat when ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Can I freeze the sloppy joe filling?
Absolutely! Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.
What if I don't have smoked paprika?
You can use regular paprika and add a pinch of liquid smoke, or substitute with a combination of sweet paprika and a dash of chipotle powder for a similar smoky flavor.
Can I use green lentils instead of brown?
Yes, green and brown lentils are interchangeable in this recipe. Both hold their shape well when cooked, so you can use whichever you have on hand.
