Why You’ll Love this Vegan Sloppy Joes Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, you’ll love this Vegan Sloppy Joes recipe. It’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The texture from the TVP mimics classic sloppy joes, and the savory sauce brings everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some plant-based protein without sacrificing taste.
I enjoy serving mine on toasted buns, and it always gets rave reviews from friends and family. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Ingredients of Vegan Sloppy Joes
When it comes to whipping up something delicious and hearty, these Vegan Sloppy Joes are a fantastic choice. They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience. Seriously, what could be better than a warm, messy sandwich loaded with flavor?
The best part is, you probably have most of these ingredients on hand already. If you find yourself in a pinch and craving something comforting, this recipe is your new best friend. Plus, it’s vegan, so you can feel great about what you’re eating. Let’s explore what you’ll need.
Ingredients for Vegan Sloppy Joes
- 2 cups textured vegetable protein (TVP)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 4 teaspoons vegetarian beef bouillon powder (like Frontier or Harvest Direct)
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, but it adds a nice depth)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 teaspoons oil (you’ll use this for sautéing)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 (15 ounce) can Manwich sloppy joe mix (I used the GV brand)
- 4-5 hamburger buns (to hold all that goodness)
Now, let’s talk about a few things regarding these ingredients. If you’re not familiar with textured vegetable protein, don’t worry—it’s actually pretty easy to work with. It’s made from soybeans and is known for its ability to absorb flavors.
If you’re not a fan of the bouillon powder, you can always use vegetable broth instead—just adjust the liquid accordingly. And about that liquid smoke? It’s optional, but it gives your sloppy joes that smoky, barbecue vibe that’s hard to resist.
Speaking of preferences, feel free to switch up the buns too; whole grain, gluten-free, or even lettuce wraps work well if you’re in a health-conscious mood.
How to Make Vegan Sloppy Joes
Alright, let’s engage in making these delicious Vegan Sloppy Joes. First things first, we need to get our textured vegetable protein (TVP) ready to roll. Grab a saucepan and bring 2 cups of water to a boil. It’s kind of like waiting for your pasta water to boil—just hang tight, it’ll happen.
Once that water is bubbling like a hot spring, stir in 4 teaspoons of vegetarian beef bouillon powder, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky kick. It’s optional, but trust me, it adds a nice depth that makes these sandwiches sing.
Then, toss in your 2 cups of TVP and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You’ll want to stir it frequently, just to make sure everything is marrying nicely together. After the time is up, turn off the heat and let it sit for another 5 minutes. You’ll see the TVP soak up all that flavor! If there’s any excess liquid left, drain it out; we want a nice, meaty texture for our joes.
Once your TVP is all set, it’s time to bring some sizzle to your sloppy joes. Heat up 3 teaspoons of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add your TVP mixture and sauté it until it’s lightly browned.
This step is essential, folks—browning adds depth and flavor, and it’s a great way to feel like a culinary genius in your own kitchen. After a few minutes of cooking, let that glorious mixture cool in the fridge. This is where the magic happens; you can pack it into ziplock freezer bags and freeze it flat. It makes for easy storage and portion control, so you can pull out just what you need later.
Now, when you’re ready to serve, simply take half of that cooled mixture out of the freezer and pop it back into the frying pan. Add in that can of Manwich sloppy joe mix and 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, stirring it all together.
Cook it on medium for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through and looking irresistible. Grab your 4-5 hamburger buns, load them up with the hearty mixture, and there you have it—vegan sloppy joes that are sure to impress!
Enjoy the messiness, because that’s part of the fun. Plus, it’s a great excuse to have extra napkins on hand. Happy cooking!
Vegan Sloppy Joes Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Vegan Sloppy Joes recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can explore to make it your own.
For a protein boost, try lentils or black beans instead of textured vegetable protein. If you want a smokier flavor, add more liquid smoke or some smoked paprika. You can swap the Manwich mix for homemade tomato sauce or barbecue sauce for a different twist.
Don’t forget to experiment with toppings; avocado, pickled jalapeños, or vegan cheese can all add delicious flair. The possibilities are endless, so have fun creating your perfect version!
What to Serve with Vegan Sloppy Joes
To elevate your Vegan Sloppy Joes experience, consider pairing them with some delicious sides that complement their savory flavors.
I love serving them with crispy sweet potato fries, as the sweetness balances the boldness of the Joes. A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy contrast, making each bite more enjoyable.
You might also try a simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette for a revitalizing touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, some homemade pickles can add a zesty kick.
Whatever you choose, these sides will enhance the overall meal and leave you satisfied!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you make Vegan Sloppy Joes, I’ve found that a few additional tips can really enhance the dish.
First, adding diced bell peppers or onions while sautéing the TVP gives it a nice crunch and flavor boost. If you love spice, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
For a smoky kick, a bit more liquid smoke can work wonders. Finally, don’t forget to let the mixture simmer long enough; it deepens the flavors.
Serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a fun twist. Enjoy your delicious creation!