Cooking for Two: Healthy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes (aka Manwhich) are a childhood staple that are arguably one of the messiest and least healthy foods my friends and I grew up with.  In an effort to bring the sloppy joe back into my life, I modified it with healthy ingredients to limit the fat and salt while keeping the juicy flavor.

(Keep in mind, I made this as a recipe for two.  If you need more, double it!)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced green pepper
• 1 8oz can tomato sauce (no salt added)
• 1 15oz can low-sodium kidney beans (drained)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. marjoram
• 1/2 tsp. pepper
• 1/4 tsp celery seed
• 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar

Preparation:

1. Toss ground turkey, onion, and green pepper in a non-stick skillet.  Cook on medium-high until meat is just browned.

2. Transfer turkey mixture into a slow cooker. 

3. Add all remaining ingredients and mix well.

4. Set slow cooker on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. 

5. Serve it on a bun and enjoy!