Description
These Chickpea Sloppy Joes are a fun, plant-based twist on the classic comfort food. Mashed chickpeas replace ground meat, and they’re simmered in a sweet and smoky tomato sauce that’s full of flavor. Pile the mixture onto toasted buns for an easy, satisfying weeknight meal the whole family will love—no meat required!
Ingredients
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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1 small red bell pepper, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
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1/2 cup tomato sauce
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2 tbsp ketchup
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp maple syrup (or brown sugar)
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1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
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1 tsp apple cider vinegar
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp chili powder
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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4 hamburger buns, toasted
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Optional toppings: sliced pickles, coleslaw, red onion, or vegan cheese
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
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Add chickpeas to the skillet and mash them with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture.
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Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Mix well.
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Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Spoon the chickpea mixture onto toasted buns. Add your favorite toppings and serve warm.
Notes
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For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and tamari instead of soy sauce.
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Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
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Leftovers are great in wraps or on top of baked potatoes!