Louisiana Sloppy Joes

Louisiana Sloppy Joes Recipe - A Flavorful Twist on a Classic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Louisiana Sloppy Joes are a delicious and hearty twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich. Packed with flavor and a touch of Cajun seasoning, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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. Louisiana Sloppy Joes add a Cajun twist to the classic recipe, incorporating flavors and ingredients commonly found in Louisiana cuisine.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of lean ground beef
1 cup of chopped celery
1 chopped green bell pepper
0.5 cup of chopped onion (1 medium)
1 x 19 oz (539 g) can of Progresso Hearty tomato soup
1 x 10.75 oz (305 g) can of condensed chicken gumbo soup
2 tbsp of dijon mustard
2 tsp of dried cajun seasoning
12 burger buns, split

How to prepare

In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, cook the ground beef, celery, bell pepper, and onion over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes or until the beef is completely cooked, stirring frequently.
Drain the excess fat.
Reduce the heat to medium.
Stir in all the remaining ingredients except for the buns.
Cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the mixture is bubbly and the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Spoon the beef mixture into the buns.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or jalapenos for extra flavor and heat.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Top the Louisiana Sloppy Joes with shredded cheese or sliced avocado for added richness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the excess fat from the ground beef mixture to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.

- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less depending on how spicy you like your food.

- Serve the Louisiana Sloppy Joes on toasted buns for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Louisiana Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making delicious Louisiana Sloppy Joes is to cook the ground beef and vegetables until they are tender and flavorful. Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can use a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to achieve a similar flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Louisiana Sloppy Joes on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Louisiana Sloppy Joes with a cold beer or a glass of sweet tea for a classic Southern meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Louisiana Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the mixture on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Louisiana Sloppy Joes contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Louisiana Sloppy Joes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Louisiana Sloppy Joes contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Louisiana Sloppy Joes contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (buns) and soy (condensed chicken gumbo soup).

Summary

Louisiana Sloppy Joes are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.

Summary

Louisiana Sloppy Joes are a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a touch of Cajun seasoning and a hearty beef mixture, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Louisiana Sloppy Joes. It was a hot summer day in New Orleans, and I was wandering through the bustling French Market, taking in the sights and sounds of the city I called home. The air was filled with the tantalizing smells of spices and seafood, and I found myself drawn to a little stand tucked away in a corner, where a local woman was cooking up a storm.

As I approached the stand, I couldn't help but notice the delicious aroma wafting from the large pot bubbling away on the stove. The woman behind the counter smiled warmly at me and beckoned me over. "Would you like to try some Louisiana Sloppy Joes, cher?" she asked, her voice lilting with a hint of a Southern accent.

I nodded eagerly, my mouth watering at the thought of tasting this mysterious dish. She ladled a generous portion onto a crusty French roll and handed it to me with a wink. I took a bite and was instantly transported to flavor heaven. The combination of spicy and savory flavors hit me like a freight train, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

I begged the woman for the recipe, but she just laughed and shook her head. "Ah, cher, this recipe is a family secret. But I can tell you this - it's all about the love you put into it." With that cryptic advice, she handed me a small slip of paper with a list of ingredients and a rough set of instructions.

I hurried home, eager to recreate the magic of the Louisiana Sloppy Joes in my own kitchen. I gathered all the ingredients - ground beef, bell peppers, onions, garlic, Cajun seasoning, and a special blend of spices that the woman at the market had given me.

As I browned the beef in a hot skillet, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of sizzling meat and spices. I added the peppers and onions, letting them soften and caramelize before stirring in the garlic and seasoning. The scent was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist sneaking a taste of the mixture as it simmered away on the stove.

Finally, it was time to assemble the Sloppy Joes. I piled the meat mixture onto toasted buns and topped them with a dollop of tangy coleslaw for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. As I took my first bite, I closed my eyes and savored the taste of my success. The flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a favorite in my household for years to come.

Over the years, I have tweaked and perfected the recipe for Louisiana Sloppy Joes, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that hot summer day in New Orleans, standing in the French Market with a smile on my face and a full belly.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its delicious flavors, but because it represents the joy of discovery and the thrill of learning something new. It reminds me that there is always more to learn and explore in the world of cooking, and that every dish has a story to tell.

So, the next time you find yourself in a new place, surrounded by unfamiliar sights and smells, don't be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone and try something new. You never know what delicious surprises you might stumble upon, just like I did with my beloved recipe for Louisiana Sloppy Joes.