Apple Butter Einkorn Sloppy Joes

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of our Apple Butter Einkorn Sloppy Joes, a satisfying and wholesome winter-style dish that will leave you craving for more. Einkorn, with its distinct nutty flavor and hearty texture, takes center stage in this recipe. However, we understand that einkorn might not always be readily available, so fear not! Hulled barley can be effortlessly substituted, and both grains will work wonders to create a dish that will warm your soul. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for the grain of your choice. Whether you pile this delectable creation on baked regular or sweet potatoes or serve it with cooked greens, the Apple Butter Einkorn Sloppy Joes will undoubtedly win over hearts with its delicious taste and wholesome ingredients. As an added bonus, it’s a fairly low-fat and high-fiber dish that no one can resist.

YIELD: This recipe yields 6 to 8 generous servings of Apple Butter Einkorn Sloppy Joes

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/3 cup (64 g) dry einkorn, rinsed and drained
• 1/3 cup (59 g) dry green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon (8 g) Broth Powder
• 1 teaspoon grapeseed or olive oil
• 3/4 cup (120 g) minced red onion
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup (180 g) unsweetened apple butter
• 1/2 cup (136 g) organic ketchup
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mild Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• Vegan buns, or baked potatoes (regular or sweet), or cooked greens, for serving

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a pot, combine the einkorn and lentils, and cover them with an additional 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) of water. Add the broth powder, bring it to a boil, partially cover with a lid, lower the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer until fully tender, approximately 35 minutes. Drain the mixture and set it aside.
2. In a skillet, place the oil, minced red onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture on medium heat until the onion and pepper soften, which usually takes about 6 minutes. Stir occasionally.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple butter, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, mild Dijon mustard, vegan Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, cayenne pepper (if using), and fine sea salt. Add this sauce mixture to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Simmer the mixture uncovered for about 15 minutes, occasionally stirring.
4. Fold the cooked einkorn and lentils into the sauce, and continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Let the Apple Butter Einkorn Sloppy Joes stand for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
6. Serve the delightful Sloppy Joes in the traditional way by using vegan buns or get creative by serving them on baked potatoes (regular or sweet) or on a bed of cooked greens.

Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this wholesome dish, and let its unique combination of ingredients captivate your taste buds. Whether you choose einkorn or hulled barley, you’re in for a treat with this winter-style delight!