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Chickpea Sloppy Joes

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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

Scale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce

  • 2 tbsp ketchup

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup (or brown sugar)

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/4 tsp chili powder

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 4 hamburger buns, toasted

  • Optional toppings: sliced pickles, coleslaw, red onion, or vegan cheese


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

  3. Add chickpeas to the skillet and mash them with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture.

  4. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Mix well.

  5. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Spoon the chickpea mixture onto toasted buns. Add your favorite toppings and serve warm.

Notes

  • For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and tamari instead of soy sauce.

  • Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

  • Leftovers are great in wraps or on top of baked potatoes!