Lentil Sloppy Joes

Another fantastic recipe from Veganomicon (Snobby Joes). My husband and I like to have "fun food" nights, food that you eat with your hands while watching a good movie, and these was the perfect fit. They were super filling and satisfying-I made a vegan coleslaw to put on top to make it Carolina Style. The leftovers were equally delicious.

Lentil Sloppy Joes (serves 6)
1 cup uncooked lentils

4 cups water
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, small dice
1 green bell pepper, small dice
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 Tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
2 Tablespoons maple syrup
1 Tablespoon mustard
Whole Wheat Buns

Pour the lentils and water into a small saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil; once the mixture is boiling, lower the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the lentils are soft. Drain and set aside. About 10 minutes before the lentils are done, preheat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Saute the onion and pepper in the oil for about 7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and saute for a minute more.
3. Stir in the cooked lentils, chili powder, oregano, and salt. Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes. Add the maple syrup and mustard and heat through. Turn off the heat and let the pot sit on the warm burner for about 5 minutes so that the flavors can meld.

Coleslaw

3 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate until use.