I’m sure I’m not the only one who holds on to favorite childhood foods. They may not be gourmet, but some dishes stay beloved for a lifetime.
This past weekend the weather shifted from warm to rainy and cool, and I suddenly craved Sloppy Joes. I first fell for them in elementary school, and they’ve kept a special place in my memories and my appetite ever since. Another childhood favorite was spaghetti with meat sauce from a local spot called Parkmoor—my family went there often. I also remember loving their premium frank, though I can’t eat one now without feeling unwell.
Back to the Sloppy Joes: I decided to make them for dinner expecting a rainy day. The sun came out instead, but since I had the ingredients ready I went ahead. This time I used whole grain buns instead of white ones for a healthier twist. The result was just as delicious as I remembered.
Sloppy Joes are a nostalgic comfort food that can transport you back to childhood. If you have kids, they’ll probably enjoy them too—many of us did as children.
Below is the Sloppy Joes recipe I’ve been making for years. It always brings back memories of running around the grade school cafeteria. I hope you enjoy it if you try it.
Sloppy Joes
serves 6
1 lb ground sirloin
2 medium onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup ketchup
2 ribs celery, finely chopped
Directions: Brown the ground sirloin and chopped onions together in a skillet. Drain any excess fat, then add the mustard, sugar, vinegar, salt, ketchup, and chopped celery. Stir to combine, then simmer gently for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve warm on hamburger buns—whole grain buns are a good option for added nutrition.
Suggestions: Sloppy Joes pair well with sweet potato fries and coleslaw, two other favorites that make for a satisfying, nostalgic meal.