This sandwich is not at all like a Sloppy Joe, but more like a loose hamburger. It is seasoned just right to mimic the famous Maid-Rite loose meat sandwich that is so famous.
2 T. dried onion flakes
1 T. warm water
1 t. low-sodium beef base or a bouillon cube
1 t. low-sodium chicken base, or a bouillon cube
2 T. light brown sugar, packed
2 T. apple cider vinegar
1 T. low-sodium soy sauce
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
3 lb. lean ground beef, uncooked
8 hamburger buns, warmed or toasted
toppings: cheese, ketchup, pickles, onions, mustard, optional
Line slow cooker with a slow cooker liner for easy clean up. Set cooker to High. Add all ingredients, except for beef. Stir to combine. Add beef and stir until all combined and beef is completely coated.
Cover and cook for 1 hour. Stir occasionally to break up ground beef. Uncover after 1 hour of cooking. Continue cooking on high for 2 ½ - 3 hours, with the lid off, until most of the liquid has cooked off. Continue to stir occasionally and break up any chunks of beef.
Using a slotted spoon, serve a heaping spoonful on a warm or toasted bun and load it up with your favorite toppings.
Serves 8-12