Ingredients:
- 1 c. Water
- ¾ c. Ketchup
- ¾ c. Chili Sauce
- 2 Tbsp. Teaoli Balsamic Vinegar (Traditional, Espresso, Maple, and Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegars are all fantastic options for this recipe that make it slightly new each time, so take a vote or try them all!)
- 2 Tbsp. Brown Sugar
- 2 Tbsp. Tomato Paste
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon Mustard
- 2 tsp. Chili Powder
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
- ½ tsp. Cumin
- ½ tsp. Crushed Red Pepper (or more, to taste)
- 4 ½ tsp. Teaoli Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Butter is a classic, but you could spice things up with Chipotle if your family loves the heat!)
- ½ Medium Yellow Onion, diced finely
- 1 Large Green Bell Pepper, diced finely
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 lbs. Ground Beef
- 2 pkgs. Butter Buns (or your family's favorite)
- Sliced Cheddar Cheese (optional)
- Dill Pickle Chips (optional)
Preparation:
- Dice onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- In a medium bowl, combine water, ketchup, chili sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, dijon, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, and red pepper flakes and mix well. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the vegetables. Cook until softened, then add garlic and sauté another two minutes.
- Increase the heat to high, add ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking up very well with a wooden spoon. Drain excess liquid as much as possible.
- Add sauce mixture to pan. Salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the sauce has thickened and slightly reduced.
- Serve on a toasted bun. If you like toppings, add mustard, pickle chips, and cheese! Serves 6-8.