Ingredients

• 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed — $0.90
• 1 small onion, diced — $0.80
• 2 cloves garlic, minced — $0.20
• 1 tablespoon oil — $0.20
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup — $0.60
• 1 tablespoon mustard — $0.10
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup — $0.20
• 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika — $0.15
• 1/2 teaspoon salt — $0.05
• 2 1/2 cups water — $0.00
• 4 sandwich buns or sturdy slices of bread — $1.80
• Optional: pickle slices or shredded cabbage — $0.40

Estimated ingredient total: $5.00 to $5.40
Displayed planning estimate: $8.20

Detailed Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils and set them aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Stir in the lentils, tomato sauce or ketchup, mustard, sweetener, chili powder or smoked paprika, salt, and water.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the mixture is thick.
8. If it dries out too quickly, add a splash of water.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
10. Toast the buns or bread if desired.
11. Spoon the lentil mixture onto the buns and add optional toppings.
12. Serve warm.

Helpful Notes

• These are messy in a good way, so sturdy buns help.
• Leftover filling works well over baked potatoes or rice.
• Brown lentils hold their shape best here.

Price Note