Sloppy Joe Sandwiches

I made the family a taste of their childhood this week.  I am from that generation where my mother tried every convenience in a can that came out.  She was a working mom with 5 kids and needed to pull dinner together quickly.  At that time parents didn't worry so much about preservatives and high sugar and fat content.  If it was advertised, it was good for you!  I am the generation of Shake 'n Bake, Lipton Soup Meatloaf, Campbell's Soup casseroles, and the popular Manwich Sandwich.   In the time it took my mom to open the can and pour herself a glass of wine (family, can't you still see that jug 'o white wine?), I had the pepper and the onion chopped and it was equal time from there.  My version, fresh, healthier and less costly.  One thing both have in common however, is it is still the messiest sandwich around! (and I wonder who Joe was, and why did he get the rap for being sloppy?)

Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
printable recipe

1 T. olive oil
1 lb. lean ground meat
1/4 c. brown sugar
1 T. steak seasoning such as Montreal
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 T. red wine vinegar
1 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 c. tomato sauce
2 T. tomato paste
4 crusty rolls

Heat a large skillet on medium high heat.  Add the oil and meat to the pan.  Brown the meat until cooked through.  Drain fat if necessary.
 Add the brown sugar and steak season and stir to combine.

Add the onions and peppers and saute for another few minutes.

Reduce heat and add the Worcestershire and vinegar and cook for another minute.
Add sauce and tomato paste.  Stir to combine and simmer all for 5 minutes.

Spoon onto the buns.

Obviously I used French bread I had on hand instead of the called for buns. And, I had a touch of grated Parmesan for a bit of salty goodness!