My husband likes simple foods so sometimes our meals consist of homey casseroles and quick dishes. I like fancier plates so even the humble sloppy joe gets a little something something added to the meat! I mean, who doesn't like a fancy sandwich?
As I've never really grown up eating this particular dish, I went and googled a few recipes until I found one that I really liked. I loved the idea of adding loads of vegetables in the meat. Thankfully this was husband approved and is part of our regular rotation.
Very Veggie Sloppy Joes
(adapted from Simply Delicious)
2.5lbs ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 large leeks, washed and finely chopped*
3 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped*
2 celery spears, finely chopped
1 can mushrooms, drained, chopped
1 tbsp minced bottled garlic
1 tsp minced black garlic (optional)
1 1/2 tbsp Chili powder
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 1/2 Tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp paprika
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp ground coriander
3/4 tsp cloves
1 tsp yellow mustard
2 tins chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 small can tomato paste
1 8oz can Tomato sauce
1 tsp beef bullion
salt & pepper to taste
*For even more veggies:
Substitute 1 leek and 1 carrot for: 1 zucchini, 1/2 bell peppers, 1/4 cup of Italian parsley.
soft kaiser rolls or onion hamburger buns, toasted
grated cheese
finely chopped lettuce (optional)
Fry the onion, leeks, carrots and celery until soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
Add the mushrooms and garlic and fry for another 5 minutes before adding the spices and ground beef. Cook until beef has browned then add tomatoes and tomato paste.
Allow to simmer for 5 minutes then add beef stock and sugar.
Reduce the heat and allow to simmer for 30-45 minutes covered.
If the sauce looks very watery, remove the lid from the pot and turn up the heat. Allow to simmer for 15 minutes uncovered until the sauce has reduced slightly. Season to taste.
Serve the mince on the toasted bread with some grated cheese.
