Kung Pao Sloppy Joes combine the bold, spicy flavors of the classic Chinese dish Kung Pao with the comforting, messy goodness of sloppy joes. This fusion recipe features ground meat cooked in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce made with soy sauce, hoisin, and a kick of Sriracha, then topped with crunchy peanuts and green onions for that signature Kung Pao texture. Served on a soft bun, these sloppy joes are a delicious twist on a weeknight favorite, bringing a unique and flavorful Asian-inspired flare to the table. They’re perfect for when you’re craving something familiar yet adventurous.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional: extra peanuts, sliced red chili, or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the ground meat: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute. Add the ground beef or chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Kung Pao sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha, sugar, and water. Pour the sauce over the browned meat, stirring to coat evenly. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Assemble the sloppy joes: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the Kung Pao meat mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, then sprinkle with chopped peanuts and green onions. Top with the remaining bun halves.
- Serve: Garnish with extra peanuts, sliced red chili, or cilantro for an added kick if desired.
Enjoy these Kung Pao Sloppy Joes for a fun, flavorful, and unique meal that will impress your taste buds with every bite!
