Save to Pinterest Elevate your next gathering with these Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders. This recipe transforms a classic American comfort food into a sweet and spicy fusion masterpiece, featuring lean ground turkey and a punchy gochujang sauce. It is the ultimate party appetizer that is easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors.
Save to Pinterest The magic of these sliders lies in the balance. While the turkey filling is rich and savory, the homemade cabbage and carrot slaw adds a bright, tangy crunch that cuts through the heat perfectly. Served on soft buns, they are a messily delicious bite that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- For the Turkey Filling: 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey, 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece fresh ginger (grated), 1/4 cup (60 ml) gochujang (Korean chili paste), 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, 2 green onions (thinly sliced).
- For the Crunchy Slaw: 2 cups (120 g) shredded green cabbage, 1/2 cup (35 g) shredded carrots, 1/4 cup (4 tbsp) mayonnaise, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp sesame seeds, pinch of salt and pepper.
- For Assembly: 8 slider buns, 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish).
Instructions
- Step 1
- Prepare the slaw: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, honey, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. Toss with shredded cabbage and carrots. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Step 2
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Step 4
- Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Stir in green onions and remove from heat.
- Step 5
- Toast slider buns lightly if desired. Spoon a generous amount of the turkey mixture onto each bun bottom, top with crunchy slaw, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and cover with bun tops.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately while warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra spice, add a diced jalapeño to the turkey mixture or a dash of Korean chili flakes to the slaw for an additional layer of heat.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is versatile; you can easily substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if you prefer a different protein base.
Serviervorschläge
To complement the sweet and spicy flavors, pair these sliders with a crisp lager or a chilled glass of white wine.
Save to Pinterest These Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders are a guaranteed hit for your next party or family dinner. With their vibrant colors and exciting flavor profile, they bring a fresh and modern twist to a beloved classic. Enjoy every messy, spicy, and satisfying bite!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes these sliders Korean-inspired?
The Korean flavors come from gochujang (fermented Korean chili paste), soy sauce, rice vinegar, fresh ginger, garlic, and toasted sesame oil. These ingredients create the signature sweet-spicy-umami profile of Korean cuisine.
- → Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
The turkey filling can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. Prepare the slaw fresh on the day of serving for the best crunch, though it can be made a few hours ahead and kept chilled.
- → Is gochujang very spicy?
Gochujang offers moderate heat with a deep, fermented flavor. It's more about complex umami than pure spiciness. If you're sensitive to heat, start with 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. You can always add more.
- → What can I substitute for ground turkey?
Ground chicken works perfectly as a lean alternative. Ground beef adds more richness but stays delicious. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tempeh or plant-based meat crumbles, adjusting the cooking time slightly.
- → How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
Lightly toast the slider buns before assembly creates a barrier against moisture. Also, avoid over-saucing the filling and serve immediately after assembling. If transporting, pack the slaw separately and add just before eating.
- → Can I freeze the turkey filling?
Yes, the cooled turkey filling freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.