Sloppy Joe Made Easy

It was only recently that I discovered the versatility of ground turkey and, now that I've stumbled on this new world of culinary opportunity, I regret the time wasted studiously ignoring this high protein option. Less fatty than ground beef, it takes on flavors with ease, and is considered by many to be the lighter, brighter, meat alternative. I've been putting it to maximum use making clumsily-named Sloppy Joe Buns - this iconic American dish supposedly got its name in the early 20th Century where it was invented and perfected by a chef known unsurprisingly as Joe - and I'm constantly amazed at diners' hugely enthusiastic response. Test-drive a turkey today or, if you insist, use this winning recipe to transform ground beef or chicken. I'll bet Joe will be guest of honor at your table for years to come.

2 large carrots 1 onion 2 large celery stalks 2 teaspoons crushed garlic 1/2 red pepper OR green 2 tablespoons olive oil 500 grams ground turkey (see notes) 1/2 cup ketchup 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 400 grams can tomato sauce Salt and pepper to taste 1: Chop the vegetables very finely in a food processor - it should be almost minced and you don't want to see chunks in your meat later - or by hand and then fry with garlic in olive oil for 5 minutes till softened. Season with salt and pepper. 2: Add turkey and toss for 6 minutes till cooked through then add ketchup, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar and brown sugar and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes to thicken. 3: Adjust seasoning to your liking and then spoon meat into burger buns and serve with coleslaw, mashed potato and hot pickles on the side if desired. COOK'S NOTES: Ground beef or chicken could be used in place of turkey. Find fish-free Worcestershire sauce at Meatland. Mixture freezes and refrigerates well and can also be served on rice or with potato wedges if you can't get your head around the Sloppy Joe concept. It's a wonderful way of serving a quick alternative to a hamburger or sandwich though so open your mind to this serving option.