Not Your Mama’s Sloppy Joes 

Because it’s my mama’s Sloppy Joe recipe. Sorry, I couldn’t resist…

Sloppy Joes take me back to my childhood. My mom made them semi-often and all four of us kids liked them. No wonder why she made them often… 🙂 

I’ve grown up making this recipe over the years and have introduced it to my home in the past months. 

The thing I love about Sloppy Joes is that they are versatile, quick, easy, and pretty healthy.

I’ve made Sloppy Joes with lentils, turkey, chicken and beef. I’ve also had different kinds of sloppy joes before too, but these are just a little different. They are tangy, slightly sweet, with just a little hint of saltiness (which is the perfect combo if you ask me.) 

Mama’s Sloppy Joes 

1 1/2lb. Ground beef, turkey, or chicken

1 Tsp. Onion salt

1 Tbsp. Brown Sugar 

1 Tsp. Mustard 

1/2 c. Ketchup (I use a brand without high fructose corn syrup- worth the extra buck or two) 

1 Tsp. Garlic powder

1 Tbsp. Apple cider vinegar (or regular vinegar) 

2 Tbsp. Lemon juice 

Enough salt/ pepper to taste 

Method:

Brown meat and drain off grease. Add all seasonings and sauces to meat mixture. Turn on heat and simmer for 15 minutes (or longer) to make sure everything is incorporated. 

Once simmered, turn off heat and serve immediately. 

Serve on whole wheat buns or bread, plain, or enjoy over a bowl of brown rice.