Lentil Sloppy Joe

Do you want comfort food but don't really have any ingredients in the fridge? I highly recommend you try this then. It is so simple and has very little ingredients. Besides the spices, which are optional, as they should be added to your taste preferences. This dish can easily be whipped up in about 20 minutes, perfect for a last minute dinner event. 

I put this hearty filling on a ciabatta roll, as those were the only buns we had that I knew were vegan but traditionally it would be served on a hamburger bun. That is what makes this recipe so great, it can be paired with anything, it doesn't have to be on a bun, which would suit someone who eats gluten free. It can be served with mash potatoes, rice, veggies, or on a bed of greens, you name it. 

Ingredients:

- Half an Onion, diced
- 1 Tbsp garlic, crushed
- 1-2 cups sliced Mushrooms
- 1 can of Lentils
- 1 can of tinned Tomatoes
- 1 tin of Tomato paste
Spices:
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Spicy Mustard spice from Woolworths (optional)
- 1 tsp of Italian mixed herbs (or a dash of sage, parsley, basil, and oregano)
- Salt and Pepper to taste

Method:

1. Cook the onions in a pan with either some oil or water, until fragrant.
2. Add the garlic and mushrooms, and cook down for around 3 minutes, or until mushrooms have reduced in size.
3. Add the tinned tomatoes and the tomato paste. Drain and rinse the lentils, then add them to the pan and stir to combine.
4. Add the spices and stir. Allow to simmer for about 10 - 15 minutes, this is important to cook the excess water away so that they are not too runny.
5. Serve on a hamburger bun with some lettuce and sliced red onion.