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Gochujang Sloppy Joes

4.6

(36)

Closeup of a gochujang sloppy joe on a bun with ridged potato chips and pickles behind it
Photograph by Isa Zapata, Food Styling by Judy Kim, Prop Styling by Nicole Louie

When I was growing up, Manwich, the canned sloppy joe sauce, was a family favorite for making and enjoying quick skillet meals. My still-speedy take uses gochujang for a smoky, spicy undertone. Treat this recipe as a way to hone your ideal levels of heat and sweetness by playing with the amount of gochujang, ketchup, and vinegar. Potato buns provide an ideal soft landing and cold pickle spears are a bright, crunchy counterpoint. When it comes to sloppy joes, the sloppier the better, so be sure to load up those buns and arm yourself with plenty of napkins! 

What you’ll need