Sloppy Joe
Sloppy Joe is an American sandwich where ground beef is browned with diced onion until the moisture cooks off, then simmered in a sweet-savory sauce made from tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a small amount of sugar. Browning the beef thoroughly before adding the sauce ingredients is critical - residual moisture dilutes the sauce and prevents the meat from developing flavor. Tomato paste provides concentrated umami, ketchup adds sweetness and body, and Worcestershire contributes a fermented depth that ties the flavors together. The mixture is simmered on low heat for about eight minutes until thick enough that it holds its shape on a spoon rather than running off. Toasting the buns before assembly creates a barrier that slows the inevitable soaking, and pickles served alongside cut through the richness.
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Instructions
- 1
Melt butter in a pan and saute diced onion for 3 minutes.
- 2
Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly.
- 3
Stir in tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar.
- 4
Simmer on low heat for 8 minutes until thick and saucy.
- 5
Toast buns lightly and fill generously with the beef mixture.
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Nutrition (per serving)
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