Red or green lentils?

Green lentils hold their shape better for a chunkier texture. Red lentils break down more for a smoother, saucier filling.

Can I freeze the filling?

Yes, the lentil mixture freezes well for up to one month. Thaw and reheat with a splash of water.

What makes it vegan Worcestershire?

Standard Worcestershire contains anchovies. Look for brands like Annie's or Wizard's that are vegan-certified.

Vegan Sloppy Joes

Name: Vegan Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup green or red lentils; 2 cup water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 0.5 whole yellow onion; 2 cloves garlic; 0.5 whole bell pepper; to taste salt and pepper; 15 oz tomato sauce; 1.5 tbsp coconut sugar; 1.5 tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce; 1.5 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 0.5 tsp smoked paprika; 4 whole hamburger buns

Hearty vegan sloppy joes made with protein-packed lentils in a smoky, sweet tomato sauce — comfort food that's ready in 30 minutes.

Prep Time

5 min

Cook Time

25 min

Total Time

30 min

Servings

Calories

385/serving

Difficulty

Easy

by Replay RecipesAmerican Cuisine

VeganDairy-FreeDinnerComfort Food

Nutrition Per Serving

385Calories

18gProtein

58gCarbs

10gFat

12gFiber

14gSugar

Ingredients

1 cup green or red lentils
2 cup water
2 tbsp olive oil
0.5 whole yellow onion
2 cloves garlic
0.5 whole bell pepper
to taste salt and pepper
15 oz tomato sauce
1.5 tbsp coconut sugar
1.5 tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce
1.5 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp smoked paprika
4 whole hamburger buns

Servings

4 servings

Ingredients

Cook the lentils

Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for 18 to 22 minutes (green lentils) or 7 to 10 minutes (red lentils) until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.

20 min

Sauté the aromatics

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.

5 min

Build the sauce

Add the tomato sauce, coconut sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for a couple of minutes.

Combine and serve

Add the cooked lentils to the sauce and stir until well combined. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and warmed through. Taste and adjust seasonings. Pile the mixture onto toasted buns and serve with sliced onion if desired.

7 min

Want background timers, offline access, and meal planning?

Open in App

Tips & Variations

Let the filling thicken on the stove — the longer it simmers, the less messy the sandwiches
Top with pickled jalapeños or coleslaw for extra crunch and flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

Red or green lentils?: Green lentils hold their shape better for a chunkier texture. Red lentils break down more for a smoother, saucier filling.
Can I freeze the filling?: Yes, the lentil mixture freezes well for up to one month. Thaw and reheat with a splash of water.
What makes it vegan Worcestershire?: Standard Worcestershire contains anchovies. Look for brands like Annie's or Wizard's that are vegan-certified.

Recipe inspired by the original at minimalistbaker.com. Ingredients and factual cooking data extracted; instructions independently written.

Chef's Comments

Loading comments...