SAUCY SLOPPY JOES

Prep Time: 30 Minutes
Yields: 6 Servings

Comment:
The Sloppy Joe sandwich dates back to the 1930s, and its interesting origin is often disputed. Some believe that the sandwich originated in Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Havana, Cuba and was named after the owner, Jose Garcia. Others claim that the sandwich was named after the oversized sweaters that became a fad for women in the 1940s. Though the exact origins of the Sloppy Joe may never be known, it will continue to delight the palates of children and adults in the South for years to come. Try this delicious version out for a simple weeknight meal!

Ingredients:
1 pound ground chuck
2 tbsps butter
1 cup diced onions
¼ cup diced celery
¼ cup diced red bell pepper
¼ cup minced garlic
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup ketchup
2 tbsps yellow mustard
2 tbsps Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp white vinegar
½ tsp chili powder
salt and black pepper to taste
cayenne pepper to taste
granulated garlic to taste
Louisiana hot sauce to taste
¼ cup sliced green onions
6 hamburger buns, toasted

Method:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and sauté 5–7 minutes or until browned. Add onions, celery, bell pepper and minced garlic and sauté 3–5 minutes or until wilted. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, vinegar and chili powder and bring to a low simmer. Cover and cook 15–20 minutes or until dark and thick, stirring occasionally. Season to taste with salt, peppers, granulated garlic and hot sauce. Remove from heat and stir in green onions. Mound about ½ cup of meat filling on the bottom half of each bun. Top with remaining bun halves. Serve hot with plenty of napkins.