We could all use some comfort food right about now and just in time comes National Sloppy Joe Day and a recipe to go with it. Enjoy!

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SLOPPY JOES

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup finely diced onion
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup tomato paste
• 2 3/4 cups tomato puree
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
• 1 teaspoon pureed chipotle in adobo
• 1 bay leaf
• 12 kaiser rolls (or thick cut bread)
• 12 slices cheddar cheese (or shredded cheese)

METHOD:

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil and saute onions until translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds. Add ground beef and saute until well browned, about 15-20 minutes.

Add tomato paste, puree, chili powder, Tabasco, chipotle and bay leaf. Stir until well blended. Raise heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer mixture, stirring occasionally until thick enough to spread on buns, about 45 minutes.

To serve, heat a broiler. Slice rolls open and place them under the broiler until lightly toasted. Ladle about 1/2 cup onto bottom of each roll and top with cheese slice or shredded cheese. Return bottom halves to broiler until cheese just melts. Top with remaining halves and serve immediately.
SERVINGS: 12

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