Hess' Sloppy Joes

Hess' Sloppy Joes Recipe - A Delicious Beef Sandwich Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Hess' Sloppy Joes is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

History

Sloppy Joes are believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The exact origins of the dish are unclear, but it is thought to have been created as a way to stretch ground beef during the Great Depression. The name "Sloppy Joe" is said to have come from a bar in Key West, Florida, where the dish was first served.

Ingredients

1 tsp salt
1 lb (454 g) 85% lean beef, ground twice
0.25 cup finely chopped onion
0.75 cup finely chopped celery with leaves
0.25 cup chopped green pepper
0.5 tsp grated lemon rind
0.25 cup catsup
0.75 cup beef broth
0.5 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp worcestershire sauce

How to prepare

Add salt to the meat.
Transfer the meat into a large dry, cold frying pan.
Stir the meat over medium heat using a large kitchen fork (not a spoon) until it changes color all over, removing any liquid fat that accumulates.
Add onion, celery, and green pepper to the pan.
Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Combine all the remaining ingredients; add them to the meat and mix well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is cooked and well mixed.

Variations

Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add a can of diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to ground the beef twice for a finer texture.

- Use a large kitchen fork to stir the meat instead of a spoon to ensure even cooking.

- Be sure to remove any excess liquid fat that accumulates while cooking the meat.

- Stir frequently while simmering to ensure the flavors are well mixed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hess' Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns with a side of coleslaw or potato salad.

Cooking Techniques

Ground the beef twice for a finer texture.

- Stir frequently while simmering to ensure the flavors are well mixed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red or yellow bell peppers instead of green peppers.

- Use chicken broth instead of beef broth.

Make Ahead Tips

Hess' Sloppy Joes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Hess' Sloppy Joes on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or chopped green onions.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Hess' Sloppy Joes with a side of sweet potato fries or a green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hess' Sloppy Joes contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hess' Sloppy Joes contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hess' Sloppy Joes contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Hess' Sloppy Joes contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Hess' Sloppy Joes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the Worcestershire sauce. It may also contain soy if the Worcestershire sauce contains soy.

Summary

Hess' Sloppy Joes are a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Hess' Sloppy Joes are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this classic dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day in the small town of Hess, where my family had lived for generations. I had been invited to a neighbor's barbecue, and as I walked into their backyard, the tantalizing aroma of grilled meat and spices filled the air.

I made my way over to the grill where Mrs. Hess was busy cooking up a storm. She smiled warmly at me and handed me a plate piled high with sloppy joes. I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before – sweet, tangy, and savory all at once.

I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. So, I mustered up the courage to ask Mrs. Hess for her recipe. She chuckled and told me that it was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. But she could see the determination in my eyes, and she relented.

Mrs. Hess invited me into her kitchen and showed me the ingredients she used – ground beef, onions, bell peppers, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a few secret spices. She walked me through the process of browning the meat, sautéing the vegetables, and simmering everything together until it was thick and flavorful.

As I watched her work, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and expertise. She moved with a grace and confidence that only comes from years of practice. And as I tasted the finished dish, I knew that I had just experienced something truly special.

From that day on, I made it my mission to perfect Mrs. Hess' sloppy joes recipe. I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different ingredient ratios and cooking techniques. I made batch after batch, tweaking and adjusting until I felt like I had finally captured the essence of the dish.

And when I finally served my sloppy joes to my family and friends, their reactions were priceless. They devoured the sandwiches with gusto, their eyes widening in delight as they savored each bite. I felt a swell of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated Mrs. Hess' masterpiece.

Over the years, I continued to make Hess' sloppy joes for every potluck, picnic, and family gathering. Each time, I received compliments and requests for the recipe. And with each batch I made, I felt a connection to Mrs. Hess and her legacy.

As time passed, I started to add my own twist to the recipe – a dash of hot sauce here, a sprinkle of brown sugar there. I found joy in experimenting and creating new variations of the classic dish. And while Mrs. Hess' original recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, I know that she would be proud of the way I have carried on her tradition.

Now, as I sit here at my kitchen table, penning these words, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift that Mrs. Hess bestowed upon me all those years ago. Her sloppy joes recipe has become a staple in my home, a dish that brings joy and comfort to all who taste it.

And as I look back on my journey to master this recipe, I realize that it's not just about the food itself – it's about the memories and the connections that we create through cooking. Mrs. Hess may have taught me how to make sloppy joes, but she also taught me the importance of sharing a meal with loved ones, of passing down traditions from one generation to the next.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, preparing a meal for your family or friends, remember the story of Mrs. Hess and her sloppy joes. And know that with a little love and a lot of dedication, you too can create something truly special.