These Vegan Sloppy Joes with Coconut Aminos are the ultimate plant-based twist on a classic comfort food. Packed with flavor and texture, they offer that nostalgic sloppy joe experience without any animal products. The sweet-savory coconut aminos bring depth without refined sugar, while the mixture of lentils and mushrooms adds a satisfying, high-protein sloppy joes experience. With hints of smokiness and tang from mustard and tomato paste, every bite is messy, hearty, and downright delicious—a clean sloppy joe recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Vegan Sloppy Joes with Coconut Aminos
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Large skillet or sauté pan A 10–12-inch nonstick or stainless-steel skillet.
Medium saucepan For cooking lentils if you prefer separate cooking (though they can cook in the skillet too).
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula Ideal for stirring the mixture.
Cutting board and sharp knife For chopping veggies.
Measuring cups and spoons To ensure accurate ingredient proportions.
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms finely chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red or green bell pepper finely diced
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos – natural low-sodium alternative to soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp mustard Dijon or yellow
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup or agave optional, for a hint of sweetness
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp chili powder adjust to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 4 –6 whole grain gluten-free, or sprouted buns (for serving)
Optional toppings: white onion, sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro
Cook the Lentils
In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to a simmer. Cook until lentils are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
Sauté the Base
Heat 2 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
Add Mushrooms & Seasonings
Add the finely chopped mushrooms along with the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until the mushrooms release moisture and begin to brown.
Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and coconut aminos. If using maple syrup, add it now. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
Combine Lentils
Add the cooked and drained lentils to the skillet. Stir until the lentil mixture is well coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or spice if needed.
Thicken & Finish
If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of vegetable broth or water. Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes for all flavors to meld. You’re aiming for a saucy but not soupy consistency.
Serve
Spoon the vegan sloppy joes onto buns. Top with optional garnishes like white onion, avocado slices, jalapeños, green onions, or cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy the messy, hearty goodness!
Pairings
- Side salad: A crisp kale-cabbage slaw with lemon-tahini dressing adds fresh contrast to the rich sloppy joes.
- Sweet potato fries: Baked or air-fried with paprika, crisped to perfection—perfect scoopers for any extra sauce.
- Pickled vegetables: Quick pickles like red onions or carrots add a tangy pop that cuts through the richness.
- Cold vegan coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, with a bit of apple cider in the dressing to brighten the plate.
- Local craft beer or kombucha: A cold, slightly sour brew balances the sweet-savory flavor of the sloppy joes.
FAQs
1. Can I use other lentils or legumes?
Yes. Red lentils cook faster but can become mushy. For more texture, use green or brown lentils. If you want variation, try black beans or chopped chickpeas—you’ll get a texture variation but still enjoy a high-protein sloppy joes feel.
2. What type of mushrooms works best?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms offer meaty texture and depth. White button mushrooms work too, though a bit milder. Portobello adds heavy texture, but chop finely for even distribution.
3. Is coconut aminos soy-free and low sodium?
Yes. Coconut aminos are a popular paleo sloppy joes ingredient—soy-free, gluten-free, and generally lower in sodium than soy sauce, making them ideal for a healthier sloppy joes clean eating twist.
4. How do I make this lower in calories?
Use water instead of oil for sautéing veggies, reduce oil to 1 Tbsp, and skip maple syrup. Opt for lighter buns or lettuce wraps. This version qualifies as a low calorie sloppy joes option without sacrificing flavor.
5. Can I make this ahead or freeze?
Absolutely. Cook the mixture, cool completely, and freeze in portions. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge or warm over low heat with a splash of water or broth. Great for meal prep or a fast “sloppy joes easy” option.
