(Updated 06-23-24)
Tempeh Sloppy Joes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Here’s a classic that still satisfies today: a vegan version of Sloppy Joe’s. It can be added to your list of easy-to-make meals.
In the world of comforting and hearty meals, the Sloppy Joe holds a special place. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family dinners, cookouts, and casual gatherings. However, for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle, the traditional ground meat in this beloved dish might not align with dietary preferences. Enter tempeh, a versatile and nutritious plant-based protein that can transform the classic Sloppy Joe into a vegan delight. Let’s explore the world of tempeh and dive into a mouthwatering recipe for Vegan Tempeh Sloppy Joes that will leave you craving for more.
Serve with a salad, and you’re ready to go. If you don’t have any buns you can toast regular bread. A pita pocket or English muffin would even do.
What is Tempeh?
Tempeh originates from Indonesia and is made from fermented soybeans. The fermentation process binds the beans into a firm, dense cake, which is then sliced or crumbled for various culinary uses. Unlike tofu, tempeh has a grainy texture and a nutty flavor profile, along with a higher content of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Why Tempeh for Sloppy Joes?
Using tempeh as a replacement for ground meat in Sloppy Joes has a few benefits. First, it’s a heart-healthy option rich in nutrients and free from cholesterol. Its high fiber content aids digestion and promotes satiety, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, tempeh’s texture and ability to absorb flavors make it a perfect candidate for the bold and savory sauce of a Sloppy Joe.
Addressing the Bitterness
Some people might be hesitant to try tempeh due to concerns about its potential bitterness. However, a simple step can mitigate this: steaming. Steaming tempeh for about 10 minutes before cooking it in recipes can soften its texture and reduce any bitter flavor, leaving a clean, nutty taste that complements a variety of dishes.
If you see a few black areas on your tempeh from the store, this is normal and a result of the fermentation process.
These plant-based sandwiches are a must-try:
- Tofu Eggless Salad Sandwich
- Tempeh Reuben Sandwich
- Tempeh Asian Lettuce Wraps
- Black Bean Mushroom Burger
- Pita Falafel Sandwich with Tahini Sauce
Serving Suggestions
These Vegan Tempeh Sloppy Joes are incredibly versatile. Pair them with a side of thick-cut seasoned fries, spice-baked sweet potato fries, or oil-free roasted potatoes for a comforting meal, or opt for a fresh green salad for a lighter touch. Corn on the cob or a tangy cucumber salad also make fantastic sides, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The Takeaway
Embracing a plant-based lifestyle doesn’t mean quitting your favorite comfort foods. You can recreate classic dishes with a nutritious twist with ingredients like tempeh. These Vegan Tempeh Sloppy Joes are delicious and packed with health benefits, making them a perfect addition to your meal rotation. So, give tempeh a chance and discover the depth of flavor and satisfaction it can bring to your vegan culinary adventures.
I’d love to hear your feedback on this Sloppy Joe’s recipe in the comments below! If you have a photo, post it on Instagram and tag me using the hashtag in your caption, and I won’t miss it!
Sloppy Joes
Equipment
- Silicone Cooking Utensil Set
Ingredients
- 2 8 oz. packages tempeh original soy, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 1 green pepper chopped
- 1 16 oz can tomato sauce
- 3 tbsp yellow mustard
- 4 tbsp apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp Vegan Worcestershire sauce
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Tempeh: If you're worried about bitterness, steam the crumbled tempeh for about 10 minutes before proceeding with the recipe.
- Saute the onion, garlic and green pepper in water or vegetable stock until they begin to wilt.
- Add the crumbled tempeh and the rest of the ingredients. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more tomato sauce or catsup and/or water.
- Simmer until all of the flavors have had a chance to mingle.
- Serve over whole wheat toasted buns with your favorite fixins' such as pickles.
I get so confused when I read many of the recipes, also from forks over knives. The courses I took in a plant based diet pretty much taught us that any thing processed was not part of the diet. Over and over again I see different breads used or called for and they are not even 100% whole grain. Lots of times things like cacao is called for etc. isn’t plant based “off a bush, off a a tree or off the ground”? Just natural forms of plants? Thank you for the clarification.
Hey Gail, thanks for your question. I understand. It can be confusing! I think the first thing to remember is that we live in the real world and sometimes the ideals for a diet like this can be hard to pull off in reality. That isn’t to say that we shouldn’t try the best we can to follow the suggestions, but if you’re following the protocol in most areas and most of the time, you’re probably doing an excellent job for your health. I know, for example, that soy milk is processed but I wouldn’t eliminate it from a plant-based diet. Find the brands with the fewest ingredients, soybeans, and water, and you’re good to go. Be sure to read the labels with other packaged items. That way you can choose those with the fewest ingredients. This is a good practice and will certainly make your life easier and, I might add, make it more likely that you’ll continue to eat this way. You want to be successful, after all.
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “perfect is the enemy of the good,” and I think that’s the case here. You’re obviously a very conscientious person and I know you can do it while not worrying too much about being exact. Now that you’ve taken the class, you’ll be better at substituting when you see ingredients that don’t fit. For example, substituting a whole grain bread for one that’s not. I hope that helps. Let me know if you need more clarification. And, feel free to ask me about specific food items if you have concerns.
We love this! I only wish we had tried it sooner! Went together pretty easy, came out great and tastes delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe! 💖💖💖 It’s fun to find a new recipe you love and it always gets easy the more you make something.