Sloppy turkey joes

Taking the sandwich to another level
I've mentioned before how my 'American' tastes were developed based on pre-packaged foods. The other (probably more direct) source of my American tastes was my elementary school cafeteria. There, I was introduced to chocolate milk, spaghetti, tacos, pizza and... sloppy joes. My brother and I would return home after school and beg our mom to make these exotic foods for us. Which is what led to the pre-packaged varieties, because how would my mom, a recent immigrant, have any idea how to make such foods?

Anti-carrot mushroom barley soup

Most soup bases involve onion, celery and carrot. I dislike carrots. I fully admit that this soup could very well benefit from the addition of carrots but I refuse to put them in. I know, I'm setting a poor example for my future children. Of course, in an act of parental rebellion, they will probably love carrots.

Second attempt at pickles

My pickle (and sandwich) obsession continues...


Proportions of this pickle brine:

• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 3 tbsp salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 garlic cloves

Salty and sweet and not too vinegar-y (I thought my first attempt was overwhelmed by the vinegar).


Great results--my best, if I do say so myself. Especially good when topped with some turkey bacon as part of a TBLT.