Smoky Lentil Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers
- ServingsServes 4
This hearty version of traditional sloppy joes has a tidy helping of sleep-aiding dietary fibre, thanks to its payload of smoky lentils. Swapping out the doughy bun for sweet bell pepper ups the nutritional ante and visual appeal. It’s also superb as leftovers.
Smoke and fire
Chipotle peppers are ripened red jalapeno chiles that have been smoked and dried. In stores, they’re typically sold in a rich, smoky flavoured adobo sauce. They add fiery, complex flavour to sauces used for pasta dishes, tacos, and any version of sloppy joes.
Smoky Lentil Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers
- ServingsServes 4
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (180 mL) dried green or black lentils
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) brown rice
- 2 tsp (10 mL) grapeseed oil or avocado oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cups (750 mL) diced eggplant
- 1 cup (250 mL) shredded carrot
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 2 Tbsp (30 mL) tomato paste
- 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 2 tsp (10 mL) dry mustard powder
- 1 tsp (5 mL) dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp (2 mL) cumin
- 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1 mL) black pepper
- 2 cups (500 mL) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 Tbsp (15 mL) balsamic vinegar
- 4 red bell peppers, halved and cored
- 1/3 cup (80 mL) chopped parsley
Nutrition
Per serving:
- calories383
- protein18 g
- total fat5 g
- sat. fat1 g
- total carbohydrates71 g
- sugars19 g
- fibre22 g
- sodium508 mg
Directions
01
In large saucepan, place lentils, brown rice, and 5 cups (1.25 L) of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until both lentils and rice are tender, about 30 minutes. Drain well.
02
Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and eggplant, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add carrot and garlic; cook for 2 minutes. Place tomato paste, chipotle pepper, mustard powder, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in pan, and heat for 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir balsamic vinegar into sauce. Stir lentils and rice into mixture, and heat for 5 minutes.
03
On microwave-safe dish, place pepper halves, cut sides up, cover with paper towel, and microwave on high for 5 minutes, or until tender.
04
Stuff peppers with lentil mixture and garnish with parsley.
Matthew Kadey, MSc, RD, is a dietitian, nutrition writer, and recipe developer. He is also the author of Rocket Fuel (VeloPress, 2016) and Muffin Tin Chef (Ulysses Press, 2012).
