Vegan Sloppy Joes
Easy tempeh Sloppy Joes with smoky sweet sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes. Serve on buns with coleslaw or tater tots.
Serve these vegan Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw and tater tots for a truly nostalgic experience.
Submitted by: Stephanie S. from Milwaukee, WI
Yield: 4-6 servings
- Use crumbled tempeh sautéed with onion, pepper and a simple tomato-based sauce for a meaty vegan filling.
- Balance sweet, tangy, and savory with agave, ketchup, vinegar and vegan Worcestershire to get classic Sloppy Joe flavor.
- Cook covered until tender, then toast buns and serve with sides like coleslaw or tater tots. Store leftovers in fridge or freeze.
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Preparation Instructions:
In a large sauté pan, combine onion, peppers and oil. Sauté on medium heat for 5-8 minutes or until translucent and aromatic.
Add in tempeh and Gateway to the North and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add in the rest of the ingredients, stir, and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until ingredients are very tender, stirring occasionally to not burn.
Toast buns if desired and serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is tempeh and why use it in Sloppy Joes?
Tempeh is a firm, fermented soy product with a nutty taste and dense texture. It holds up well in saucy dishes and mimics the bite of ground meat when crumbled, making it a great base for vegan Sloppy Joes.
Can I substitute tempeh if I do not have it?
Yes. Good swaps are cooked brown or green lentils (1 to 1.5 cups cooked for 8 ounces tempeh), crumbled firm tofu, rehydrated TVP, or finely chopped mushrooms. Adjust seasonings and cook time so the swap absorbs the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten free?
The tempeh mixture itself can be gluten free, but check labels. Some tempeh, vegan Worcestershire sauces, and buns may contain gluten. Use gluten free buns and a certified gluten free Worcestershire or coconut aminos to keep it gluten free.
How can I make the Sloppy Joes spicier or milder?
To make it milder, remove the jalapeño or omit seeds. To make it spicier, keep the seeds, add extra jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce. Taste and adjust in small steps.
How long will leftovers last and how do I reheat them?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave covered, stirring halfway through.
Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe filling?
Yes. Cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freeze buns separately for best texture.
How do I prevent soggy buns and get a thicker sauce?
Simmer uncovered for a few minutes at the end to reduce and thicken the sauce. Toasting the buns or spooning on just enough filling before serving also keeps buns from getting soggy. Serve extra sauce on the side if you like it saucier.
What is tempeh and why use it in Sloppy Joes?
Tempeh is a firm, fermented soy product with a nutty taste and dense texture. It holds up well in saucy dishes and mimics the bite of ground meat when crumbled, making it a great base for vegan Sloppy Joes.
Can I substitute tempeh if I do not have it?
Yes. Good swaps are cooked brown or green lentils (1 to 1.5 cups cooked for 8 ounces tempeh), crumbled firm tofu, rehydrated TVP, or finely chopped mushrooms. Adjust seasonings and cook time so the swap absorbs the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten free?
The tempeh mixture itself can be gluten free, but check labels. Some tempeh, vegan Worcestershire sauces, and buns may contain gluten. Use gluten free buns and a certified gluten free Worcestershire or coconut aminos to keep it gluten free.
How can I make the Sloppy Joes spicier or milder?
To make it milder, remove the jalapeño or omit seeds. To make it spicier, keep the seeds, add extra jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce. Taste and adjust in small steps.
How long will leftovers last and how do I reheat them?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave covered, stirring halfway through.
Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe filling?
Yes. Cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freeze buns separately for best texture.
How do I prevent soggy buns and get a thicker sauce?
Simmer uncovered for a few minutes at the end to reduce and thicken the sauce. Toasting the buns or spooning on just enough filling before serving also keeps buns from getting soggy. Serve extra sauce on the side if you like it saucier.
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