Classic Sloppy Joes

Any favorite dish you enjoy can be transformed into something healthier. Whether it is adding more vegetables or using leaner meat, you can feel better about eating it and making it for your family. Here is a great variation on sloppy joes. And I can't help but think of the weird lunch lady on "Billy Madison" and her saying "shloppy joes."

1 lb extra-lean ground beef

1/2 onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 jalapeno, minced (seeds and ribs removed)
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 15 oz can kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 15 oz can tomato sauce
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 Tbsp red wine vinegar
1 Tbsp molasses
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp mustard powder
3/4 tsp kosher salt
A few grinds black pepper
8 whole-wheat burger buns

In a large skillet over medium high heat, add the ground beef and onion, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink and is cooked through, pour the drippings out of the pan and discard. Add the garlic, jalapeno, and green pepper and cook 5 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Stir in the rest of the ingredients, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes more. Place a half-cup scoop of the mixture onto each bun and serve.

Yields 8 sloppy joes.

Served with these: We had these with a yummy cucumber and tomato salad.

Rookie's Notes: I recommend buttering up the buns a little and then putting them in the broiler for a few minutes. Nice and toasty...