Save Indulge in a bold and comforting culinary mashup that brings together the juicy, savory essence of a classic cheeseburger with the hearty, fiber-rich texture of lentil sloppy joes. This dish is a plant-based delight, featuring a savory lentil base piled high on crisp, golden sourdough bread and finished with a rich, velvety vegan cheese sauce that rivals any dairy version.
Save The crunch of the toasted sourdough provides the perfect foundation for the saucy lentil mixture, while the tangy pickle slices and fresh red onions add the essential 'cheeseburger' toppings that make every bite nostalgic and delicious.
Ingredients
- Lentil Sloppy Joe Base: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion (finely diced), 1 green bell pepper (finely diced), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 ½ cups cooked brown or green lentils, 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, salt and black pepper (to taste).
- Vegan Cheese Sauce: ½ cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 20 minutes and drained) or ½ cup sunflower seeds for nut-free, 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk, 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color), 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional).
- Assembly: 4 large slices sourdough bread, vegan butter or olive oil (for toasting), 1 small red onion (thinly sliced), 1 dill pickle (thinly sliced), chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional).
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Lentil Sloppy Joe Base
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic; cook 1 minute. Stir in cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, maple syrup, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 2: Make the Vegan Cheese Sauce
- In a blender, combine soaked cashews (or seeds), plant milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, and cornstarch. Blend until completely smooth. Pour mixture into a small saucepan and heat over medium, whisking constantly, until thickened and melty, about 3–5 minutes. Add a splash more milk if too thick.
- Step 3: Toast the Sourdough
- Brush both sides of each sourdough slice with vegan butter or olive oil. Toast in a skillet over medium heat or under a broiler until golden and crisp on both sides.
- Step 4: Assemble
- Place each toasted sourdough slice on a plate. Spoon a generous portion of the lentil sloppy joe mixture over each slice. Drizzle with warm vegan cheese sauce and top with sliced red onion, pickles, and fresh herbs. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra depth of flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or grated carrot to the lentil mixture while it simmers; these ingredients add wonderful umami and a hint of natural sweetness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the sourdough for your favorite gluten-free bread. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the lentil base.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this hearty meal with a crisp lager to complement the savory flavors, or enjoy it with sparkling water and a twist of lemon for a refreshing balance.
Save Whether you're looking for a kid-friendly dinner or a satisfying plant-based lunch, these sourdough sloppy joes deliver massive flavor and a fun twist on a beloved American classic.
Recipe FAQ
- → What lentils work best for this dish?
Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture that complements the savory tomato base.
- → How can I make the cheese sauce nut-free?
Substitute soaked cashews with sunflower seeds for a nut-free cheese sauce alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
- → Can I prepare the lentil mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the lentil base can be made in advance and reheated gently before assembly to enhance flavor melding.
- → What is the best way to toast the sourdough bread?
Brush slices with vegan butter or olive oil and toast in a skillet or under a broiler until golden and crisp on both sides.
- → Are there any good additions to boost flavor?
Try adding sautéed mushrooms or grated carrots to the lentil mix for extra umami or sweetness, or a dash of hot sauce for heat.