Healthier Sloppy Joe’s (approx 4 servings)

INGREDIENTS

2 tsp. olive oil, divided use

1 lb. raw ground 93% lean turkey breast or ground beef

¾ cup chopped onion (approx. 1 medium)

¾ cup chopped red bell pepper (approx. 1 medium)

2 cloves garlic, chopped

2 cups all-natural tomato sauce, no salt or sugar added

1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

1½ tsp. Franks’sⓇ hot pepper sauce

1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup

½ tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt) 

¼ tsp. ground black pepper 

4 slices low-sodium sprouted whole-grain bread (like Ezekiel®) or thin roll

Finely chopped fresh parsley (for garnish; optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat 1 tsp. oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add ground meat; cook, stirring frequently to break up, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the turkey/beef is no longer pink. 

3. Heat remaining 1 tsp. oil in a second large skillet over medium heat. 

4. Add onion and bell pepper; cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until onion is translucent. 

5. Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute. 

6. Add onion mixture, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper. 

7. Add turkey to tomato mixture. Mix well. Reduce heat to medium-low; gently boil, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until sauce has thickened. 

8. Place a slice of bread or thin roll on each serving plate. Top evenly with turkey mixture (approx. 1 cup). 

9. Sprinkle each serving evenly with parsley before serving, if desired. ENJOY!