BIBS ARE OUR FRIENDS:

The sloppier, the better with these joes (J.M. HIRSCH, 7/04/07, The Associated Press)

1 small onion
1 tablespoon pickled hot or sweet peppers, chopped (such as jalapenos or Peppadews)
3 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon dry yellow mustard
1¼ pounds ground beef (not lean)
½ cup ketchup
1½ cups tomato puree
1 tablespoons cider vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 hamburger buns
Bread and butter pickle slices, for serving

In a food processor, combine the onion, hot or sweet peppers, and garlic. Pulse until very finely minced. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl several times. Set aside.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion mixture and saute for about 4 minutes. Add the paprika, cumin, chili powder and mustard powder. Stir well and saute another 4 minutes, or until the onions are very soft.

Add the beef and saute, breaking up the clumps with a spoon, until the meat is just browned, about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large measuring cup, whisk together the ketchup, tomato puree and vinegar. Add this to the meat, bring to a simmer, then lower heat to medium and cook, uncovered, 10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

Season the sloppy joes with salt and pepper. Arrange each bun on a serving plate, then spoon a quarter of the sloppy joes into each. Serve with pickles.