Step 1

Place the dry soy curls (or TVP) in a bowl and add ¾ cup water plus a tablespoon of soy sauce. Stir well and set aside to soak. If using larger pieces of soy curls (not the small, broken bits), after they're hydrated, either pulse them in a food processor or transfer to a cutting board and chop them up by hand.

Step 2

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add the oil, if using. Saute the onion and bell pepper for 5 minutes. For oil-free, add a splash of water to help soften the veggies. Add the tomato paste and stir to mix it in.

Step 3

Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stirring frequently, cook for about 1 minute. Add the ketchup, mustard, and vinegar, and stir again.

Step 4

Pour the hydrated TVP/chopped soy curls into the skillet and stir well. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until just getting hot. Add ½ cup water, and increase the heat to bring to a simmer. If it starts to look too dry, add up to ¼ cup more water. Stirring occasionally, cook for about 5 minutes or until sticky and hot.

Step 5

Taste for seasoning, and add a few dashes of hot sauce if desired. Serve hot on toasted buns with your favorite toppings. Sloppy joe mix is also delicious on salads, tacos, grains, pasta, and potatoes.