Lentil Sloppy Joes

If someone offered me lentil sloppy joes a few years ago, I probably would have laughed.  And yet, it's funny how things can change because--seriously!--I think I prefer these lentil sloppy joes to the original meat version.  These have all the flavor without the guilt.  Believe me, I know how crazy this sounds, but I don't think I'll ever make sloppy joes with meat again.

Lentil Sloppy Joes
Printable Recipe
Serves 6-8

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium-sized onion, diced

1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 cup uncooked brown lentils, sorted

2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon yellow mustard
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 can diced green chilies
1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)

Directions
1) Saute onions and bell pepper in olive oil until onions are opaque.  Add garlic, chili powder, and lentils, stirring for 1 minute.  
2) Add water and bring to a boil.  Cook on medium low, covered, for 20-30 minutes or until lentils are tender, stirring occasionally. 

3) When the lentils are done, add remaining ingredients and stir until combined.  Ladle lentil mixture onto buns (or toasted sourdough!), garnishing with cheese, pickles, tomatoes, lettuce, or whatever sloppy joe fixings you like.  Enjoy!