Delicious Vegetarian BBQ Sloppy Joes Recipe
Looking to spice things up in the kitchen? Look no further than this delicious Vegetarian BBQ Sloppy Joes recipe! Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a tasty meatless alternative to the traditional sloppy joes recipe, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Don’t be fooled by the absence of ground beef or other animal products — these BBQ Sloppy Joes are packed with flavor and texture that will satisfy even the most hardcore meat eaters. The lentils and plant-based meat substitute offer a satisfying bite that’s similar to ground beef, while the sweet and tangy combination of ketchup, barbecue sauce, and apple cider vinegar creates a mouth-watering finish.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in less than an hour. Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard BBQ parties, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So let’s fire up the grill (or stove), grab our aprons and aprons, and get ready to make some amazing Vegetarian BBQ Sloppy Joes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you on the hunt for an easy vegan sloppy joe recipe? Look no further than this delicious Vegetarian BBQ Sloppy Joes Recipe! Whether you’re a diehard meat lover or a plant-based enthusiast, you’ll be sure to love this recipe.
Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. The recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients like lentils, onions, and garlic. Even better, it’s a plant-based meal so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
Craving the smoky taste of barbeque sauce? This dish has got you covered. The addition of a sweet and tangy homemade BBQ sauce makes every bite heavenly.
This recipe also offers versatility when it comes to how you make it. You can use either plant-based ground beef or lentils, making it perfect for vegans and carnivores alike. Additionally, the recipe can be adapted for slow cookers or stovetop cooking, depending on what works best for your schedule.
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this dish – it’s absolutely jam-packed with flavor. Trust me when I say that even meat-eaters won’t be able to resist a second helping. So go on and give this Vegan BBQ Sloppy Joes Recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
Before you start preparing your BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes, let’s take a look at the ingredients you are going to need for this recipe. This plant-based version of the classic sloppy joes will surprise you with a tantalizing combination of flavors and textures.
Lentils
You will need 1 cup of lentils for this recipe. We recommend using a combination of green and brown lentils, rinsed and drained, to get the best possible texture. Be sure to sort and rinse them before cooking.
Vegetables
In this recipe, we will be using diced onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and yellow onion diced. Be sure to chop them finely so that they blend in nicely with the lentil mixture.
Sauces
The sauce is what really makes this dish sing, This recipe uses BBQ flavored lentil sauce- 1 cup, ketchup-1/4 cup, barbecue sauce- 1/2 cup, apple cider vinegar-2 tsp, tomato sauce-8 oz can and tomato paste- 1 tbsp . These sauces bring all the savory flavors together – smokiness from barbecue sauce and tanginess from tomato paste & ketchup – all while being mindful of a vegan diet.
Vegetarian Ground Beef
You can also use beyond beef if you want but vegetarian ground beef gets the job done! You will need 8 oz for this recipe.
Olive oil
To give it that extra oomph on our taste buds, 2 tbsp of olive oil is added.
Spices & Seasoning
To impart a rich and deep flavor in this vegan bbq lentil sloppy joe, we’ll be using garlic minced (3 cloves), soy sauce (½ tbsp) and chipotle bbq (2 tbsp). Any meaty substitute would lack depth without these spices!
Now that your ingredient list is ready let’s move on to how-to prepare a succulent sloppy joe mix!
The Recipe How-To
Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetarian Ground Beef
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add one diced yellow onion and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add one bell pepper diced and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Then, add three cloves of minced garlic and stir everything together.
Once the onions are caramelized, add one package of vegetarian ground beef to the skillet. Cook according to package instructions or until heated through.
Step 2: Cook the Lentils
While the vegetarian ground beef is cooking, rinse one cup of green or brown lentils and place them in a large pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-30 minutes or until tender.
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce
Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess water and add them to the skillet with the vegetarian ground beef. Mix together and add one cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, one cup of ketchup, two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, one tablespoon of tomato paste, and two teaspoons of soy sauce.
Stir everything together until all ingredients are fully combined. If you prefer a spicier taste, consider adding a bit of chipotle BBQ sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cooker Method
For even more flavor and tenderness, this recipe can also be cooked in a slow cooker. Simply follow steps one and two as written above, then add all ingredients (including the cooked lentils) to your slow cooker.
Cook on low for four hours, or on high for two hours until everything is heated through and combined.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your delicious vegan BBQ sloppy joes warm on your favorite sandwich buns or simply on top of a bed of greens along with some sliced avocado or pickles. These lentil sloppy joes are perfect for meal prep and will make great leftovers as well!
Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
As a vegan chef, I believe that cooking is all about experimentation and creativity, and this recipe allows for plenty of both. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this vegetarian bbq sloppy joes recipe:
– Lentil Sloppy Joes: If you don’t have or can’t find vegetarian ground beef, you can substitute it with lentils to create a lentil sloppy joes recipe instead. Use 1 cup of dried green or brown lentils (rinsed) in place of the Beyond Beef or flavored lentil mix. Cook the lentils separately following the package instructions until tender, then add them to the saucepan when called for in the recipe. Try using red lentils as well for a vibrant twist to your dish.
– BBQ Chickpea Sloppy Joes: If you’re a fan of chickpeas, you can substitute them for the vegetarian ground beef in this recipe to make a BBQ chickpea sloppy joes version. Use canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed), 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce. Cook the chickpeas separately until slightly crispy, then add them to the saucepan once called for in the instructions.
– Chipotle BBQ Sloppy Joes: For a smoky and spicy twist on this classic dish, add canned chipotle in adobo sauce to your barbecue sauce blend. You can adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of chipotle used.
– Slow Cooker Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes: To make this recipe even easier, try adapting it to be prepared in a slow cooker. Cook 2 cups of dried lentils in 7 cups of water with diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and tomato sauce on high heat setting for 4 hours or until tender. Drain any excess liquid before adding your mixture to the final dish with barbecue sauce, ketchup and apple cider vinegar.
Whichever substitution or variation you choose, embrace your inner creativity while experimenting with your favorite plant-based ingredients to make exciting new versions of sloppy joes!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you’ve whipped up these delicious vegetarian BBQ sloppy joes, it’s time to think about how to serve and pair them. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile and pairs well with several different sides.
If you’re looking for a classic pairing, you can’t go wrong with a side of crispy fries. Baked sweet potato fries or regular potato fries deliver the perfect crunch to balance out the richness of the sloppy joes.
You can also serve them alongside some crunchy coleslaw, pickles or sliced avocado to complement the tangy flavors of the barbecue sauce.
Another great option is to place your lentil sloppy joe on a bed of greens and top it off with some crispy tortilla strips, cherry tomatoes, red onion rings or diced bell peppers for added texture and color.
If you’re hosting a party or want to serve a variety of options, consider pairing these sandwiches with other vegan finger foods such as hummus, guacamole or veggie skewers with a soy-based dip.
Finally, for those looking for a sweeter flavor profile, try serving fresh-cut watermelon or fruit salad as a refreshing side dish. The sweetness of the fruit contrasts perfectly with the savory taste of the sloppy joes.
No matter how you choose to pair them, these plant-based BBQ lentil sloppy joes are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Making this vegetarian BBQ sloppy joes recipe ahead of time can save you a lot of stress during dinner time. The good news is that this recipe is perfect for meal prepping, making it an ideal recipe for busy weekdays. Once cooked, store the leftover sloppy joes in airtight containers and refrigerate them for up to five days or freeze for up to six months.
When you’re ready to reheat the leftovers, there are a couple of ways to go about it. One option is to heat it up in the microwave. Simply microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on your stove by heating it up in a pot over low-medium heat while stirring occasionally.
If you plan to make this recipe ahead of time specifically for storing and reheating later, I recommend making the lentil filling separately from the buns. Let the filling cool completely before adding it to an airtight container and storing it in the fridge or freezer separately from the buns.
Reheating Tip:
To keep the bun nice and soft while reheating, wrap them in aluminum foil, place them in an oven-safe dish, and reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes or until they’re warm and soft.
By following these simple tips on how to make ahead, store, and reheat your vegetarian BBQ sloppy joes recipe, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based meal with ease whenever you want!
Tips for Perfect Results
Making the perfect Vegan BBQ Sloppy Joes can go a long way in turning your meal from average to amazing. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect taste and texture that you are looking for:
1. Use high-quality ingredients: This recipe relies on some key ingredients like bbq sauce, ketchup, and vegan ground beef. To truly bring out the flavors and get the desired texture, use good quality versions of these ingredients.
2. Let it simmer: While this recipe is relatively quick to make, don’t rush it. Allow it time to simmer on low heat so that all the flavors develop well and combine.
3. Experiment with different sauces: The recipe calls for a combination of ketchup and bbq sauce which goes great together, but don’t be afraid to mix it up with different sauces such as chipotle bbq or even tomato sauce.
4. Add more vegetables: This recipe already includes onions and green bell pepper but feel free to add more vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or even mushrooms. They will add to the flavor and nutritional value.
5. Consider lentils: If you are avoiding vegan ground beef altogether or just want a different texture, try using lentils instead. You can use green or red lentils for this recipe, and they will provide a meaty texture while being healthier.
6. Use a slow cooker: If you want an easy way to achieve the perfect Vegan BBQ Sloppy Joes without much fuss, then consider using a slow cooker. Simply dump all the ingredients in a crockpot and let them simmer for several hours to release all the amazing flavors.
7. Don’t overcook: Be careful not to overcook! Cooking too long can result in dry vegan beef or mushy lentils, which may ruin the texture of your Sloppy Joes.
Using these tips will elevate your Vegan BBQ Sloppy Joes game while keeping you healthy at the same time. So why not give them a try?
FAQ
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about this vegetarian BBQ sloppy joes recipe. I understand that sometimes preparing a new recipe can come with some uncertainties or doubts, but don’t worry. Here, in this section, you’ll find answers to your queries and some helpful tips to ensure that you get the most out of this dish. So, let’s dive in!
Can you eat sloppy joe without meat?
Looking for a tasty and simple plant-based option that will satisfy your nostalgic cravings? Look no further than Vegan Sloppy Joes! With the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe features vegan ground beef, peppers, and onion, all simmered in a homemade sauce. You can pile it onto some toasted buns, and voila! You’ll have a classic meal your whole family will love.
Is Manwich Original Vegan?
Manwich is a sauce that can be used as an ingredient for vegan and vegetarian meals. It is a versatile option that can be mixed with various meat substitutes like tofu, lentils, and seitan. However, it is worth noting that some of the ingredients it contains are not desirable and may not be found in your regular pantry.
Is it called sloppy joe or BBQ?
A traditional sandwich known as a sloppy joe typically includes cooked and seasoned ground beef mixed with onions, tomato sauce or ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and other flavorings, served on a bun.
What goes with sloppy joes?
There are some scrumptious foods that pair flawlessly with Sloppy Joe’s. Firstly, the classic combo of Sloppy Joe’s and baked beans is one that has been enjoyed for many years. Secondly, snacks like potato chips and tater tots act as the perfect complement to this dish. If you’re feeling a bit more peckish, mac and cheese, potato salad, and sweet potato hash are all excellent choices that will leave you feeling satisfied. Lastly, dill pickles and macaroni salad are two tangy and savory sides that you might want to consider.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this vegetarian BBQ sloppy joes recipe is nothing short of a masterpiece! Not only is it simple to make and bursting with flavor, but it also caters to a plant-based diet. By using a combination of lentils and vegan ground beef, you’re not only getting the nutrients your body needs but also keeping yourself satiated for longer periods.
The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment and tweak it to make it your own. You can add some chipotle BBQ sauce for heat or switch up the vegetable toppings according to your preference.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to football Sundays with friends. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a conversation starter.
Whether you’re following a strict plant-based diet or just looking for fun new ways to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this vegan BBQ sloppy joes recipe is an excellent choice.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and get started on making this delicious plant-based meal. Your taste buds and body will thank you!
Vegetarian BBQ Sloppy Joes Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 sandwich buns
- 2 cups vegetarian ground beef
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, but buns in medium saucepan.
- Bring mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low. Cover and let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until onion is tender.
- Stir occasionally.
- Serve on buns.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.