Garbage Plate Remastered

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef or turkey 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns or hot dog buns 4 hamburger buns or hot dog buns
• 4 slices of cheese (optional) 4 slices of cheese (optional)
• 4 cups (800g) French fries or home fries 4 cups (800g) French fries or home fries
• 1 cup (200g) macaroni salad or kale and apple slaw 1 cup (200g) macaroni salad or kale and apple slaw
• Mustard and diced onions for topping Mustard and diced onions for topping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 550 kcal / 2300 KJ
• Fat: 25g (Saturated: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 50g (Sugar: 5g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
2. 2.
   Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   While the chili sauce is simmering, prepare the French fries or home fries according to package instructions or your preferred method.
5. 5.
   If using hamburger buns, toast them lightly. If using cheese, place a slice on each burger patty and melt it under the broiler for a minute.
6. 6.
   Assemble the Garbage Plate by placing a generous portion of French fries or home fries on a plate. Top with a hamburger patty or hot dog, followed by a ladle of the chili sauce. Drizzle with mustard and sprinkle diced onions on top.
7. 7.
   Serve with a side of macaroni salad or kale and apple slaw.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef or turkey — Choose lean meat for a healthier option. If using turkey, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet to prevent it from drying out.
• French fries or home fries — For a healthier alternative, bake the fries instead of deep-frying them. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices before baking.

Tips & Tricks

• Customize your Garbage Plate by adding additional toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with grilled portobello mushrooms or veggie burgers.
• If you prefer a spicier chili sauce, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to taste.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to add extra flavor to your burger.
• To save time, prepare the chili sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Serving advice

Serve the Garbage Plate hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Provide extra mustard and diced onions on the side for those who prefer a stronger tangy kick.

Presentation advice

Present the Garbage Plate on a large plate, showcasing the layers of fries, meat, chili sauce, and toppings. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.