Daily Life and Supportive Care During Cancer Treatment

Turkey-Quinoa Not-Too-Sloppy Joes

This sloppy joe filling is a little thicker than most so it stays nicely tucked in the bun. The unexpected addition of quinoa adds texture in addition to beneficial fiber, protein, and other nutrients.

Prepare this when you have leftover quinoa on hand, or make the quinoa fresh. Start it when you begin the recipe and it will be ready when you need it. If cooking quinoa for this recipe, make extra to serve with Chicken Tagine with Carrots, Prunes, and Chickpeas.

Ingredients

6 SERVINGS

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red or green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground chili powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 hamburger buns, lightly toasted

Tip: For added calories, top sandwiches with grated Cheddar cheese or melt some on the bun before serving.

A sloppy joe made with ground turkey and quinoa sits on a white plate, with pickles on one side and greens on the other.

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil. Saute the onion and bell pepper for 5 to 7 minutes, or until softened.

Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon and saute for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the spices are fragrant.

Add the turkey and saute for 5 to 8 minutes, or until cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.

Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste and bring to a boil, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.

Add the quinoa and season with salt and pepper.

Serve on toasted buns.

Per serving

Calories: 300
Fat: 10 g
Saturated fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg
Sodium: 620 mg
Carbohydrate: 31 g
Dietary fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 8 g
Protein: 21 g
Calcium: 100 mg
Potassium: 670 mg

book cover for the ACS book, hat to Eat During Cancer Treatment 2nd Editition

What to Eat During Cancer Treatment
Copyright ©2018 American Cancer Society.
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