21+ Vegetarian Sloppy Joes

Just because I don't eat meat doesn't mean I don't miss certain things--especially certain comfort foods. This is one of those foods. I've even impressed a few self-proclaimed carnivores with these. The avocados are optional, but they really do add to the whole...ummm... sandwich experience? Wow that sounds kinda lame. Anyway, I suppose you could use actual ground beef to make these but I cannot vouch for that version of this recipe. Prep/cooking times are estimated.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 3  tablespoons canola oil
• 4  large garlic cloves, minced
• 1  large bell pepper, chopped
• 1 1⁄2 lbs  soy crumbles
• 3  tablespoons chili powder
• 1 -2  jalapeno pepper, seeded (or not)
• 1 1⁄4 cups  pale ale or 1 1⁄4 cups  brown ale, room temperature
• 3⁄4 cup bottled chili sauce
• 2  tablespoons soy sauce
• 1  cup  finely chopped green onion (or regular onion if you prefer)
•  hamburger bun
• 1 -2  avocado, sliced (optional)

Directions

1. Warm oil in a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and green pepper (if using regular onion, add it too). Saute, stirring frequently, 5 minutes.
3. Stir in soy crumbles and chili powder. Cook 1-2 minutes (until fragrant).
4. Add jalapeños, ale, chili sauce and soy sauce.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring often, about 15 minutes, until thickened.
6. If using green onion, mix it in now.
7. season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve warm, topped with avocado slices (if desired).