Spicy BBQ Sloppy Joes

I haven't had Sloppy Joes for years.  Just never think of it.  But this recipe makes total sense as another Burger Alternative--Spicy BBQ Sloppy Joes.  It fits in line with providing simple skills with multiple variations on a theme: hamburger doesn't have to equal 'another burger night'.

See what you think.  I adapted a version from Epicurious Dinner Rush magazine called 'Sophisto Joes' but completely misread the recipe on my first attempt, adding 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar instead of 1 1/2 Tablespoons.  On remake, I adjusted the ingredients and added a few new ones.  Still simple, but with a little kick to keep things interesting!

Equipment:

Large skillet

Wooden spoon

Knife for chopping veggies

Magic-Bullet-type blender (if you don't have one you'll have to simply mash tomatoes)

Measuring spoons

Ingredients:

1 (14 1/2 oz) can whole tomatoes or diced, drained

1 large onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 Tablespoons butter

1 medium carrot, finely chopped

1 celery rib, finely chopped

1 1/2 lbs ground beef

1 1/2 tsp chili powder

2 Tablespoons Worchestershire Sauce

1 Tablespoon of light or dark brown sugar

Juice from 1/2 lemon or 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar 

Pinch of cayenne (optional, if you have it)

1/2 tsp of Dijon mustard (optional if you have it)

4 Kaiser Rolls / Hamburger Rolls, toasted with or without butter.

Instructions:

1. Wash your hands.

2. Puree the tomatoes in the blender. Set aside.

3. Prep all of the veggies.

4. Heat butter over MEDIUM - HIGH heat in a large 12" skillet.

5. Saute garlic and onion until onion begins to turn golden brown, approx 4-5 minutes.

6. Add carrot, celery, 1/2 tsp of salt.  Stir and cook for until veggies soften, approx 4-5 minutes.

7. Add beef and brown, stirring occasionally, approx 5-6 minutes.

8. Add chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, dijon mustard, and 3/4 tsp pepper.  Stir for 2 minutes.

9. Add pureed tomatoes, lemon juice, Worchestershire Sauce, and brown sugar.

10. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens, approx 6 minutes.

11. Season to taste with salt.
12. Toast your rolls for added support for the sloppiness.  Add butter or skip.