– French bread
– Vegetable broth or water
– Green lentils
– Olive oil
– 1 Yellow or white onion
– Red or green bell pepper
– Baby bella mushrooms
– Garlic
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place bread slices on a baking sheet and toast for 15-20 minutes, until lightly golden brown. (See "Tips" section for using a toaster oven or broiler.)
Meanwhile, add liquid and lentils to a small saucepan. Over medium-high heat, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook (covered) for around 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain any remaining liquid and set aside.
While your lentils are cooking, add oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 5-6 minutes, until soft and translucent. Toss in diced pepper and mushrooms, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Next, add salt, pepper, tomato sauce, maple syrup, ketchup/tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and paprika, and stir until well combined.