Healthy Sloppy Joes with Lentils
Description
This skinny version of Sloppy Joes ups the nutrition ante by swapping the meat for lentils, and adding in extra veggies.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
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4 tablespoons tomato paste
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2 cups water
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1 (14 1/2 ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes
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1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
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2 tablespoons molasses, or more to taste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
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1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
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3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
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6 medium hamburger buns, split
Directions
1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened, 7 to 9 minutes. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook and stir for 30 seconds. Mix in tomato paste, and cook another 60 seconds, stirring constantly.
2
Add water, diced tomatoes, and lentils, stirring to combine. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, reduce heat to low, and cook until lentils are tender, but not falling apart, 15 to 20 minutes.
3
Mix in molasses, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, vinegar, and salt. Cook, uncovered, an additional 10 minutes, or until mixture has thickened slightly. Taste, and adjust seasonings as needed. Allow to cool 5 minutes before serving on buns with desired toppings.