Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes Recipe - A Satisfying Skillet Dinner Recipe from USA!

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food dish that is loved by both kids and adults. This hearty and flavorful meal is perfect for a quick and easy dinner option that the whole family will enjoy.

History

The origins of Sloppy Joes can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. It is believed that the dish was created as a way to stretch ground meat during the Great Depression. The name "Sloppy Joe" is said to have originated from a bar in Key West, Florida, where the dish was first served.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) ground meat
1 small onion, diced
0.5 cup quick barbecue sauce
1 tbsp raw oatmeal
buns, toast or hard rolls

How to prepare

In a skillet, brown the meat and onion.
Add barbecue sauce, oatmeal, and enough water to cover the meat. Heat the mixture until it boils, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 15 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the meat becomes tender.
Serve the mixture on buns, toast, or hard rolls.
After cooking, the dish can be frozen for later use.

Variations

Use different types of ground meat such as turkey, chicken, or pork.
Add in extra spices like chili powder, cumin, or paprika for a more flavorful dish.
Top the Sloppy Joes with cheese, pickles, or jalapenos for added toppings.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the meat and onion well to develop a rich flavor.

- Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- For a healthier option, you can use lean ground meat or turkey instead of beef.

- Feel free to add in extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making delicious Sloppy Joes is to simmer the meat mixture until it thickens and becomes tender. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and savory dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have barbecue sauce on hand, you can use ketchup mixed with a bit of brown sugar and vinegar as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sloppy Joes on toasted buns with a side of pickles and potato chips for a classic and nostalgic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Sloppy Joes pair well with a cold beer, soda, or iced tea. For a healthier option, serve them with a glass of water or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sloppy Joes contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sloppy Joes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sloppy Joes contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sloppy Joes contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Sloppy Joes are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the rolls. It may also contain soy if the barbecue sauce contains soy ingredients.

Summary

Sloppy Joes are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are a satisfying and filling dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Sloppy Joes are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner option. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can whip up this classic comfort food dish in no time. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Sloppy Joes. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl, eager to learn all I could about cooking. My grandmother, who was a wonderful cook herself, had passed down many recipes to me over the years. But this one was different. It was a recipe that I had stumbled upon by chance, during a visit to my aunt's house.

My aunt was always experimenting with new recipes, and on that particular day, she had decided to make Sloppy Joes for dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen and caught a whiff of the delicious aroma, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. My aunt was more than happy to teach me, and she patiently walked me through each step of the process.

I watched as she browned the ground beef, onions, and garlic in a skillet, adding in a blend of spices and seasonings that filled the kitchen with a mouth-watering scent. She then stirred in a mixture of ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, letting it simmer until the flavors had melded together perfectly.

As my aunt spooned the savory mixture onto toasted hamburger buns, I couldn't wait to take my first bite. The Sloppy Joes were a revelation – tangy, sweet, and oh so satisfying. I was hooked from that moment on, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Sloppy Joes countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I have added in extra spices, experimented with different types of ground meat, and even thrown in some diced veggies for extra flavor and nutrition.

But no matter how many variations I try, the original recipe that my aunt taught me will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of that magical day when I first discovered the joy of cooking, and the bond that food can create between family and friends.

I have since shared the recipe with my own children and grandchildren, passing on the tradition of Sloppy Joes to the next generation. And each time I make it, I am transported back to that sunny kitchen, where the smell of sizzling beef and onions filled the air, and I felt like I had uncovered a secret treasure.

So here it is, my beloved recipe for Sloppy Joes, passed down through the generations and cherished by all who taste it. I hope it brings you as much joy and comfort as it has brought me over the years. Enjoy!