Zesty Sloppy Joes

Zesty Sloppy Joes

1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 6-ounce can vegetable juice
1/2 cup catsup
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons no-calorie, heat-stable granular sugar substitute
2 tablespoons chopped, canned jalapeño peppers (optional)
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
8 whole wheat hamburger buns, split and toasted
Shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (optional)
Sweet pepper strips (optional)

1. In a large skillet cook ground beef*, onion, and garlic until meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain off fat. *TIP: You can substitute lean ground turkey (at least 93 percent lean, or 93/7) in place of ground beef.

2. Meanwhile, in a 3 1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker combine vegetable juice, catsup, water, sugar substitute, jalapeño peppers (if desired), mustard, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in meat mixture.

3. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 6 to 8 hours or on high-heat setting for 3 to 4 hours. Spoon meat mixture onto bun halves. If desired, sprinkle with cheese and serve with sweet pepper strips. Makes 8 servings.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

8 servings
C 294
Fat 11

Prepare as directed through Step 2 and part of 3 but do not assemble into sandwiches; cool quickly, stirring frequently. Transfer mixture to a freezer container. Seal, label, and freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw mixture in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days or until completely thawed. Transfer mixture to a large saucepan. Heat through, stirring frequently. Serve as directed by spooning meat mixture onto bun halves. If desired, sprinkle with cheese and serve with sweet pepper strips.