Sloppy Joes

Classic Sloppy Joes Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns
• Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. Toast the Buns (Optional): While the mixture simmers, you can toast the hamburger buns on a skillet or in the oven if desired.
6. Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add any optional toppings like sliced pickles or cheese. Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich and serve hot.

Importance of Each Ingredient

• Ground Beef: The main protein source, providing the hearty and savory base for the dish.
• Onion & Bell Pepper: Aromatic vegetables that add sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
• Garlic: Adds a savory and aromatic element that complements the other ingredients.
• Ketchup: The primary sauce that gives the dish its signature sweetness and tanginess.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and a depth of flavor that enhances the overall richness of the sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Balances the acidity of the ketchup and vinegar with sweetness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides acidity, helping to balance flavors and add a slight tang.
• Mustard: Adds a bit of sharpness and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients and bringing the dish together.
• Hamburger Buns: The vehicle for the sloppy joe filling, adding texture and helping to soak up the saucy mixture.

Feel free to customize your Sloppy Joes with additional spices or toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy this classic comfort food!