In my last entry, I discussed how to eat healthy on the cheap by incorporating fresh produce, meatless meals, and buying whole grains, beans and lentils in bulk. Over the next few days I will post a few of my favorite recipes to give you some ideas of how you can enjoy healthy, flavorful meals without breaking the bank.
Snobby Joes
Makes 6 sandwiches
(Recipe by Post Punk Kitchen)
Meatless sloppy joes are healthier and less expensive than the meat variety. Low in calories and with virtually no fat, lentils provide 6 important minerals, 2 B Vitamins, and protein to fill you up. As if that wasn't enough to make them a nutritional powerhouse, lentils are high in fiber, which helps to lower cholesterol.
The lentils absorb flavors well and provide the perfect texture for sloppy joes. I actually like these better than the meat variety! These are even better the next day, which makes for some excellent lunch leftovers. Pair with homemade baked fries and a salad for a complete meal!
1 cup uncooked green lentils
4 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced small
1 green pepper, diced small
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 Tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons oregano
1 teaspoon salt
8 oz can tomato sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
4 to 6 whole wheat buns (optional – for serving)
Put the lentils in a small sauce pot and pour in 4 cups water. Cover and bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until lentils are soft. Drain and set aside.
About 10 minutes before the lentils are done boiling, preheat a medium soup pot over medium heat. Saute the onion and pepper in the oil for about 7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and saute a minute more. Add the cooked lentils, the chili powder, oregano and salt and mix. Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Cook for about 10 minutes.
Add the maple syrup and mustard and heat through.Turn the heat off and let sit for about 10 minutes, so that the flavors can meld.
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