Vegetarian Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. Made with tempeh and a savory blend of spices, these sloppy Joes are hearty and satisfying. They offer a great way to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to eat less meat or explore vegetarian options. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients. Plus, Vegetarian Sloppy Joes are great for families or gatherings. You can serve them as a quick weeknight meal or at a weekend BBQ. Everyone will love the bold flavors and messy fun of Sloppy Joes!
How to Make Vegetarian Sloppy Joes
Making Vegetarian Sloppy Joes is straightforward and quick. Just gather your ingredients, and you’ll have a tasty meal in no time!
Ingredients:
0.25 cup vegetable oil
0.5 cup minced onion
2 (8 ounce) packages tempeh
0.5 cup minced green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
0.25 cup tomato sauce
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses
0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
0.25 teaspoon celery seed
0.25 teaspoon ground cumin
0.25 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon ground coriander
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
0.5 teaspoon oregano
0.5 teaspoon paprika
1 pinch ground black pepper
hamburger buns
Directions:
- Heat oil in a deep, 10-inch skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the onion in the oil until translucent.
- Crumble the tempeh into the skillet; cook and stir until golden brown.
- Add the green pepper and garlic; cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, molasses, cayenne pepper, celery seed, cumin, salt, coriander, thyme, oregano, paprika, and black pepper; stir well.
- Simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes.
- Spoon the hot mixture onto hamburger buns to serve.
How to Serve Vegetarian Sloppy Joes
Serve your Vegetarian Sloppy Joes on soft hamburger buns. You can add some extra toppings, like pickles or sliced onions, if you like. Pair them with a side of fries or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Vegetarian Sloppy Joes
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Vegetarian Sloppy Joes
- For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
- Make sure to crumble the tempeh well for the best texture.
- If you don’t have tempeh, you can use cooked lentils or black beans as a substitute.
Variation
You can switch things up by using different veggies like mushrooms or corn. You can also try adding BBQ sauce instead of tomato sauce for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the tempeh mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: If you use gluten-free hamburger buns and check your Worcestershire sauce, this recipe can be gluten-free.
Q: Can I veganize this recipe?
A: This recipe is already vegetarian, but it’s easy to make it vegan! Just use maple syrup instead of honey or omit the honey altogether.