Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes, pictured with Oven Sweet Potato Fries

Serves 4 to 6

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1/2 large or 1 small bell pepper, diced
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/4 cups dried TVP or TSP granules (textured soy protein)
• 3/4 cup ketchup*
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili powder**
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke, optional
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Soft sandwich buns for serving, toasted if desired

*Or replace ketchup with:

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or agave nectar, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 

**Or replace chili powder with:

• 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, to taste

Heat oil in a medium saucepan and sauté onion and bell pepper until onion is translucent. Add water, TVP, ketchup, soy sauce, chili powder, garlic, mustard, liquid smoke, and black pepper. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, 20 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings and check consistency. If necessary, thicken by simmering uncovered 5 minutes longer, stirring frequently, until most of the liquid has evaporated. Serve hot on sandwich buns.