Sloppy Joes

Ingredients:

• 1 kg lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1 small apple, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 1/5 cup ketchup (or adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoon brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• 6 hamburger buns (or any buns of your choosing)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Skillet: Add 1-2 teaspoons of oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the Beef: Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Vegetables and Apple: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and apple (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables (and apple, if used) start to soften.
4. Mix the Sauce: Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve: Spoon the mixture onto split hamburger buns and serve warm.