Description

These Chickpea Sloppy Joes are hearty, flavorful, and completely vegetarian! Mashed chickpeas are simmered in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce with bold spices, piled high on toasted buns for a meatless meal the whole family will love. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small bell pepper (any color), diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup water (as needed for consistency)
4 hamburger buns, toasted

Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw, avocado

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Sauté veggies:

In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Mash chickpeas:

In a bowl, lightly mash chickpeas with a fork or potato masher, leaving some whole for texture.

Add chickpeas and sauce:

Add mashed chickpeas to the skillet. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire (or soy sauce), vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of water if needed.

Simmer:

Reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve:

Spoon mixture onto toasted buns and top with your favorite fixings. Serve warm!

Notes

Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky twist.
Want it spicy? Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Leftovers are great in wraps or over baked potatoes!