Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners into a flavorful, hearty experience that even meat lovers will crave? Look no further than these Lentil Sloppy Joes! Packed with protein-rich lentils and bursting with savory goodness, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare in your Instant Pot or slow cooker, but it also promises to delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can create a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy families or casual gatherings. Dive into this deliciously messy classic and discover how to make a plant-based twist on a beloved favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or small stones.
- Dice the onion and green bell pepper into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors.
- If using an Instant Pot, select the sauté function. If using a slow cooker, use a separate skillet to sauté vegetables first.
- Add a small amount of oil to the pot and sauté the diced onions and green bell peppers until they become soft and slightly translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with vegetable broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- For Instant Pot: Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 10-12 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- For Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until lentils are tender.
- Once cooking is complete, season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir and mash some lentils slightly to create a more sloppy texture.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly for added texture and warmth.
- Spoon the lentil mixture generously onto the prepared buns, ensuring an even distribution.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any debris or stones. This ensures a clean and delicious final dish.
- Sauté for Flavor: Whether using an Instant Pot or slow cooker, sautéing the onions and bell peppers first enhances their flavors, making your Sloppy Joes even more delicious.
- Adjust the Cook Time: If you prefer your lentils a little firmer, adjust the cooking time slightly, especially in the slow cooker. You can always check for doneness and continue cooking if needed.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to tweak the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce to suit your taste. Adding a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika can give it an extra kick!
- Perfectly Toasted Buns: Lightly toasting your hamburger buns adds a delightful crunch and helps prevent them from becoming soggy when loaded with the lentil mixture.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing your Sloppy Joes with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of cheese for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
