Growing up in Chicago, this was one of my favorites. Sloppy Joe. I created a healthier version than the canned product, but the good news is that it tastes even better!

Let me know what you think. 

🍽️ Serves: 4
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb organic grass-fed ground beef (or ground bison)
  
• 1 tbsp organic extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
  
• 1 small organic yellow onion, finely chopped
  
• 1/2 organic red bell pepper, finely chopped
  
• 2 cloves organic garlic, minced
  
• 1 cup organic tomato sauce
  
• 2 tbsp organic tomato paste
  
• 1 tbsp organic apple cider vinegar
  
• 1 tbsp organic mustard (Dijon or yellow, gluten-free)
  
• 1 tbsp organic maple syrup or raw honey
  
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
  
• 1/2 tsp organic cumin
  
• 1/2 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
  
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
  
• Pinch of organic cayenne (optional, for heat)
  

Serving Options

• Gluten-Free Buns: Look for organic and gluten-free brands like Canyon Bakehouse or Base Culture
  
• Organic Sweet Potato Chips: Store-bought or homemade (see quick recipe below)
  
• Optional toppings: Organic pickles, red onion slices, fresh cilantro, or shredded organic lettuce
  

Instructions

1. Sauté veggies: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté 1 more minute.
   
2. Brown the meat: Add ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
   
3. Add sauce and spices: Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, and all spices. Mix well to coat the meat.
   
4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until thick and rich.
   
5. Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or sweetener if needed.
   
6. Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto gluten-free buns or scoop alongside sweet potato chips.
   

🍠 Quick Homemade Sweet Potato Chips

Ingredients:

• 2 organic sweet potatoes, thinly sliced
  
• 1 tbsp organic coconut or avocado oil
  
• Sea salt, to taste
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Toss sweet potato slices in oil and sea salt.
   
3. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
   
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.