Kind of a Sloppy Joe without tomatoes (or slop). I can't claim credit for this one; it's from recipezaar, but with my modifications. One of our absolute favorites! Use a cast iron skillet if you have one; it makes for a wonderful flavor, even though it's a little more work to clean. This makes about 4 to 6 sandwiches, depending on the size buns you get. Warning: my husband and I regularly eat this in one sitting, alone, when I make the whole recipe, so make sure you make enough!

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground chuck (you can use other ground beef, but if it's lower in fat, make sure to add about 1 Tbsp. fat [oil, lard, shortening] to skillet and heat before browning beef)
• enough salt to just cover bottom of skillet
• 1 onion, chopped very small
• 1 Tbsp. prepared mustard (I use Gulden's brown spicy)
• 1 Tbsp. vinegar (white is best)
• 1 Tbsp. sugar
• water
• hamburger buns
• prepared mustard
• dill pickle slices

Directions

1. Heat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat (remember to preheat stove if using electric) or other skillet (but cast iron is best).
2. Sprinkle salt in to just cover the bottom.
3. Brown beef in skillet. As it's browning, break it up into little tiny crumbles with a spoon. As beef begins to brown, add onions and continue to cook until thoroughly browned.
4. Add sugar, mustard, and vinegar. Mix.
5. Add just enough water to almost cover the beef. (Don't add too much or it will take forever to cook and you'll have to re-season your skillet, besides.)
6. Reduce heat and cook at a simmer until water is gone (about 15-20 minutes).
7. Steam, toast, or microwave buns to heat.
8. Spread a bit of mustard on each side of the bun.
9. Spoon meat mixture onto buns, top with dill pickle slices, and serve!

This recipe was submitted by ketchupqueen on January 29, 2005.