Grandma Ryan's Sloppy Joes

In beer commercials single guys seem to encounter a never-ending string of beautiful, buxom, scantily clad blondes with Ms. America smiles who like to frolic in hot tubs. The music pulses, the good times roll, and life is glamorous. While being a single guy had its thrills for me, it was far from being a party at the Playboy Mansion. During my bachelor years, my inner gourmet was drowning in a sea of beer, and my path to culinary enlightenment was blocked by microwaveable meals, bar food, and recipes spotlighting ground beef. A culinary highlight during this bleak period in my life might involve browning some hamburger and combining it with a can of Manwich. I could sometimes go a week eating leftover Sloppy Joes.

Needless to say I don't miss that life. Gone are the cans of Manwich, and when I make Sloppy Joes today, they're made from scratch, using a recipe our household received from our dear friend Mary Ryan. I know there are some culinary snobs out there who scoff at the notion of this sandwich. Just give it a try. I think, you'll find the tang of the mustard, vinegar, and the hint of cloves to your liking. If this recipe doesn't make one of the best Sloppy Joes you've ever tried, leave your name & address, and I'll mail you a can of Manwich.

Grandma Ryan's Sloppy Joes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped green pepper
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the beef and drain excess grease. Set aside.
2. Saute onions and green peppers until soft.
3. Add beef to the onions and green peppers.
   
4. Mix remaining ingredients together and add to the meat.
5. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Enjoy!

Eat your vegetables,
muddywaters

PS. . . I do miss the stereo speakers I had during my bachelor years, but that's about it.