Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes

Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes are a delicious, vegetarian twist on your favorite Sloppy Joe flavors. They are quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. These hearty sandwiches make for an excellent meal option that everyone will enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a filling family meal, these lentil sloppy joes are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The Instant Pot makes cooking fast and easy, allowing you to enjoy your meal in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: Infused with spices and savory ingredients, these lentil sloppy joes are full of rich flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on toasted burger buns or over rice; customize with your favorite toppings.
• Healthy Alternative: Packed with protein and fiber from lentils, this dish is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Family-Friendly: A fun twist on a classic dish that kids and adults alike will love.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time significantly while retaining flavor and nutrients.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient proportions for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes are a delicious, vegetarian twist on your favorite Sloppy Joe flavors. They are quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

For the Sloppy Joe Mixture

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup finely chopped carrot (2-3 carrots)
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ cups dry green lentils (rinsed and drained)
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth or water)

For Serving

• Toasted burger buns
• Red onion or other toppings as desired

How to Make Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Add olive oil to the Instant Pot and turn on Saute.
– Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper.
– Sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
– Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.
– Press Cancel to turn off the Saute function.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to the pot:
– Rinsed lentils
– Tomato sauce
– Ketchup
– Maple syrup (or brown sugar)
– Apple cider vinegar
– Mustard
– Chili powder
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Broth

Stir well, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and turn the steam release valve to sealing position.
– Pressure cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
The Instant Pot will take about 15 minutes to reach pressure before cooking begins.

Step 4: Release Pressure

When cook time ends, allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes by letting it sit untouched.
Then carefully turn the steam release valve to venting position using a long spoon handle.
Wait for all steam to escape before opening the lid.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Stir the sloppy joe mixture well before serving it on toasted burger buns. Enjoy with red onion or other toppings as desired!

How to Serve Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes

Serving Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes is an opportunity to get creative with toppings and sides. These hearty, flavorful sandwiches can be customized to suit any palate, making them a hit for both casual gatherings and family dinners.

Top with Fresh Veggies

• Sliced Red Onions: Add a sharp crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory lentils.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro brings brightness and freshness to each bite.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spices.

Add Cheese

• Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar is a classic choice that enhances the savory flavors.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a tangy twist that complements the dish beautifully.

Serve with Pickles

• Dill Pickles: The acidity of dill pickles cuts through the richness, adding flavor.
• Sweet Pickles: For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, these are a delightful addition.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes

To ensure your Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes are as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Base: Start with sautéing your vegetables well to develop deep flavors in the dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference for spice or sweetness.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality lentils will enhance the overall taste of your sloppy joes.
• Control Consistency: If the mixture is too thick after cooking, simply add more broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the mixture to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes can elevate your meal. Here are some great suggestions that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these fries bring a sweet contrast to the savory joes.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich flavors of the sloppy joes.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a fresh, sweet element that pairs well with any sandwich.
4. Garden Salad: A light garden salad dressed with vinaigrette provides freshness and brightness to your plate.
5. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips offer a satisfying texture that complements the softness of the sloppy joes.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying out a new recipe like Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Rinsing: Not rinsing the lentils can lead to a gritty texture. Always rinse and drain your lentils before cooking to ensure they’re clean and ready to absorb flavors.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Sautéing vegetables for too long can result in mushiness. Aim for about 4 minutes of sautéing until they are softened but still retain some crunch.
• Ignoring Liquid Ratios: Using too little or too much liquid can affect the consistency of the dish. Follow the liquid measurements closely for optimal results.
• Not Allowing Natural Pressure Release: Opening the Instant Pot too soon can cause splattering and uneven cooking. Let it release pressure naturally for 10 minutes before venting.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or ingredients can extend cooking time. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to keep cooking time consistent.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the mixture to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label and date your containers for easy reference.

Reheating Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes?

Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes are a vegetarian version of the classic Sloppy Joe made using lentils instead of meat. They are savory, hearty, and perfect for a quick meal.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes?

The total time is about 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking time in the Instant Pot.

Can I customize the toppings for my Sloppy Joes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like sliced jalapeños, cheese, or avocado to suit your taste preferences.

Are there any good side dishes to serve with Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes?

You can pair these Sloppy Joes with sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and sides while enjoying their rich flavors. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings. Give it a try today!

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