makes 4 sandwiches
1 pound grass-fed ground beef
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1/2 green pepper, diced (seeds and ribs removed)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup tomato puree
1/2 cup filtered water
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
salt and pepper to taste
hamburger buns
1. Heat a skillet or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until brown. Line a plate with paper towels. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the browned beef onto the paper-lined plate to drain off excess fat.
2. Add the olive oil to a second skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and diced green pepper and saute until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add in the garlic and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the ketchup, tomato puree, water, brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the cooked ground beef. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
3. Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the meat mixture onto the rolls and serve immediately. Serve with the sides of your choice -- kettle chips and baked beans are my faves.