Sloppy Joe Sauce Without High Fructose Corn Syrup
Sloppy Joes are a classic American staple that everyone loves. However, many store-bought sauces contain high fructose corn syrup, which can be harmful to our health when consumed in excess. Luckily, making your own Sloppy Joe sauce without high fructose corn syrup is easy and delicious. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients you need and how to prepare it.
Why Avoid High Fructose Corn Syrup?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a type of sweetener that is commonly used in processed foods and beverages. It is made by converting cornstarch into glucose and then fructose. While it can improve the taste and texture of foods, it has been linked to several health problems.
Studies have shown that consuming high levels of HFCS can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and even liver damage. It has also been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses. That's why it's important to avoid products that contain this ingredient.
Ingredients Needed for Sloppy Joe Sauce
One of the best things about making Sloppy Joe sauce from scratch is that you can control the ingredients and adjust the flavor to your liking. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup water (or more as needed)
How to Make Sloppy Joe Sauce Without High Fructose Corn Syrup
Now that you have all of the ingredients, it's time to start cooking:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, onion, garlic, and green pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Next, add the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add more water; if it's too thin, let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Serve the Sloppy Joe sauce on toasted buns and enjoy!
Conclusion
Making your own Sloppy Joe sauce without high fructose corn syrup is a smart choice for your health. By avoiding processed foods that contain this ingredient, you can reduce your risk of various health problems. Plus, making your own sauce allows you to customize the flavor to your liking and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love.