Vegan Sloppy Joes with Tempeh Recipe
Sloppy, saucy, and absolutely delicious—these vegan Sloppy Joes are here to save dinner. Tempeh steps in as the perfect meaty stand-in. It crumbles beautifully, soaks up all the tangy, smoky sauce, and delivers serious flavor. Pile it onto a toasted bun, and you’ve got a messy, satisfying meal. It’s easy, packed with protein, and so tasty you’ll forget it’s plant-based. Plus, it’s a total weeknight win—minimal effort, maximum reward. Grab some napkins (you’ll need them), and get ready for a nostalgic, guilt-free bite. Who said comfort food had to be complicated?
Vegan Sloppy Joes with Tempeh Recipe
A smoky, tangy, plant-based twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, using crumbled tempeh for a hearty, protein-packed bite.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz tempeh crumbled
- 1 small red bell pepper diced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns toasted
- ½ cup coleslaw optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper and crumbled tempeh, cooking for 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, maple syrup, soy sauce, and spices.
- Pour in vegetable broth and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar, taste, and adjust seasoning.
- Spoon the mixture onto toasted buns and top with coleslaw if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious mess.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 15g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Iron: 20%
- Potassium: 18%
- Vitamin A: 25%
- Folate: 12%
- Magnesium: 10%
Tips for the Best Vegan Sloppy Joes
- Crumble tempeh finely for a meatier texture.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Serve with pickles for a tangy crunch.
