Taste the Wilderness: Michigan-Inspired Sloppy Joe Doe Recipe for a Flavor-Packed Meal

In the heart of Michigan, where the forests are dense and outdoor life is a way of living, there's a new twist on an American classic—the Sloppy Joe. This version, known as the Sloppy Doe, uses venison to create a wild game masterpiece. Whether you're an avid hunter or just love Michigan's rustic flavors, this dish brings the wilderness straight to your kitchen.

Photo bythemeateater.com

With Michigan's rich hunting culture, venison is often on the menu. Using ground venison instead of beef gives this dish a distinct flavor—earthy, lean, and packed with protein. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys local, wild-sourced ingredients. The Sloppy Doe brings together that homey, familiar Sloppy Joe texture and Michigan’s love for game meat.

Recipe: Michigan Style Sloppy Joe Doe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground venison
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• Butter for toasting buns

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground venison over medium heat. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid.
2. Add the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. While the venison mixture simmers, butter the burger buns and lightly toast them in a separate pan or in the oven.
6. Spoon the Sloppy Doe mixture onto the toasted buns and serve hot.

The Michigan Twist:

What makes the Sloppy Joe Doe a Michigan favorite is the use of venison, a nod to the state's hunting culture and its connection to nature. This meal isn't just filling; it celebrates the outdoors and the taste of wild game. Venison is leaner and richer than beef, offering a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce and soft buns.

Whether you're making it after a successful hunting season or just want to try something new, the Sloppy Doe is a delicious, rustic dish that brings the essence of Michigan’s wilderness right to your table. Perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner after a day spent exploring the great outdoors.

Sources:

Venison Sloppy Joes Recipe - Wild Game & Fish (wildgameandfish.com)

Venison Sloppy Joes | MeatEater Cook (themeateater.com)