Not So Sloppy Joe Soup
# of Servings
8
Difficulty Rating
Easy
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef, chicken or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced super fine (children generally don't like large bits of onion)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 28 ounce can stewed tomatoes, with juice, mashed to fine pulp
- 4 cups vegetable, chicken or beef broth - or half-and half with water.
- 1 small can tomato paste or, 1 regular can tomato soup
- 4 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh or ½ teaspoon dried organic oregano
- 1 teaspoon fresh or ½ teaspoon dried organic basil or, 2 teaspoons organic italian blend herbs
- few grinds Spice Depot Black Peppercorns to taste
- 1-14 oz can cooked lentils (any color), rinsed and drained
Methodology
In a large saucepan or kettle with lid, brown the meat in olive oil with onions and garlic. Drain meat fat. Add remaining ingredients and simmer on very low heat for as little as 20 minutes, but 60 minutes preferred.
This recipe is a good slow-cooker option and also freezes well. Children and adults of all ages love this soup. The recipe can be altered for Sloppy Joe's by simply reducing the amount of broth and draining all liquid from the canned tomatoes.
