If you’ve never made sloppy joes before, there’s no need to worry: this is one of the easiest things you can cook and there are plenty of ways to spice it up. Best of all, the ingredients store well, so you can always keep this recipe on the back burner (no pun intended) for when you have a busy night.
Ingredients:
-1 sloppy joe seasoning mix (found at most grocery stores)
-1 lb. ground beef
-1 6 oz. can of tomato paste
-1 cup water
-Minced garlic* (optional, measured to your heart’s content)
-Diced onion* (optional, measured to your heart’s content)-Hamburger buns
Instructions:
-Brown ground beef in a deep pan. If adding onions/garlic, do so now. Once beef is browned, drain fat.
-Add tomato paste, water and seasoning mix. Combine and slowly bring to a boil.
-Simmer on low for 10 minutes.
-Optional: Lightly toast hamburger bun. This prevents the sandwich from becoming too soggy.
-Optional: Add a squirt of mustard or another condiment to bring out some more flavor!
-Scoop beef onto bun and enjoy!
*Author’s note: Keeping a jar of minced garlic in your fridge is a great option, especially if you don’t cook often. It lasts a long time and is very convenient. You can also substitute garlic or onion powder in lieu of the fresh stuff. Additionally, ground beef freezes well. You don’t need to worry about these ingredients going bad!
Megan Kingsley can be reached at arg-life@uidaho.edu.