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Make Ahead Smooth & Saucy Sloppy Joe Sauce

Here's how you make Make Ahead Smooth & Saucy Sloppy Joe Sauce
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  • Servings: 8-12
  • Prep: 10-15m
  • Cook: 30-60m
    • The following recipe serves 8-12 people.

Ingredients

The ingredients are:
  • FOR SAUCE (makes enough sauce for 2 1/4-2 1/2 lbs meat)
  • 1 green bell pepper, rough chopped
  • 1 can (4 to 5 ounces) green chilies, drained
  • 1 large yellow onion, rough chopped
  • 4 to 6 cloves garlic, rough chopped
  • 1 large celery rib, rough chopped
  • 1/4 cup carrots, grated (or shredded)
  • 1 large plum tomato, rough chopped
  • 8 ounces tomato puree (or tomato sauce)
  • 3 ounces ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (your favorite brand), to taste
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons cider vinegar (splash, to taste)
  • 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (dijon can also be used)
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons brown sugar, to taste
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Water (to thin out the sauce)
  • OPTIONAL
  • 568 to 710 grams bread buns (8-10 sesame seed hamburger buns)
  • 4 to 5 ounces bread and butter pickles (about 24-32 slices)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, cut in half thin sliced
We recommend you get your ingredients ready before you start cooking. Once you're ready, here are the steps to making this delicious recipe

How to Make

  • Step 1: Note: I normally make this ahead of time; but, you can also use it right away. And, it freezes great - I like to make a double batch and freeze.

  • Step 2: Sauce ... Add all the vegetables to the food processor; and, pulse several times. Now, you don't want to make baby food; but, you do want a coarse grind or mince on all the vegetables. Add the remaining ingredients, except the water; and pulse to combine everything. Obviously, with the some of the ingredients - like the hot sauce, vinegar, mustard, sugar, chili powder, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper; it is to taste. I like to start with the smaller amounts as suggested; then, puree until you have a smooth sauce.

  • Step 3: Note: This can also be done in a blender if that is all you have.

  • Step 4: Simmer ... In a medium size pot; bring the sauce up to a light boil (medium-high heat). Then, reduce to a simmer on medium-low to low heat. Once the sauce is simmering; you can easily adjust your seasoning to your tastes. Personally, I like more mustard/vinegar, and heat (hot sauce, chili flakes); but, my friend prefers a sweeter sauce; so, just adjust how you like it. And, season with salt and pepper to taste too. It really is a personal preference. Simmer a good 30-60 minutes; and, as it simmers ... if the sauce looks a bit thick; add a little water.

  • Step 5: Cool and Pack Up ... I like to make this ahead; and freeze; although, you can use this right away - or, put in the refrigerator. I like to use mason jars or tupperware containers; but, you can use ziploc bags too. Just cool completely before you store it. It is a great make ahead sauce for a quick weeknight dinner, party, potluck, or BBQ.

  • Step 6: Sloppy Joes ... When ready to use the sauce; simply brown your meat of choice as mentioned, I like a mix of turkey and beef. Once browned; drain the meat, if necessary - and, add your sauce. Simmer 10-15 minutes to warm up. Done!

  • Step 7: Serve and ENJOY! ... Serve on soft sesame rolls, with bread and butter pickles; and, optional onion slices. Add chips, potato salad, fries, or corn on the cob as a side dish.

We hope you enjoy this recipe!

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