Mama Ables' Junk
Mama Ables' Junk is hearty comfort food combining savory ground meat, tender potatoes, and flavorful tomatoes, perfect for family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a frying pan, cook the ground chuck or round with chopped onions, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder until browned.
- While the meat is cooking, prepare the potatoes by quartering or slicing them.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the shortening and cook the potatoes until lightly browned and tender.
- Add the peeled tomatoes and paprika to the potatoes and stir well.
- Combine the cooked meat and onion mixture with the potato and tomato mixture, simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey for a leaner option. You can also experiment with different types of potatoes; sweet potatoes could add a nice sweetness to the dish. If you prefer a richer taste, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the meat mixture. Remember to taste and adjust seasonings as needed; a dash of paprika can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mama Ables' Junk hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added brightness. For a comforting dessert, consider browsing more American recipes like Nora'S Miracle Whip Chocolate Cake to finish the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but cover with a lid to avoid drying out the dish. Freezing is not recommended as the potatoes may become mushy upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama Ables' Junk contains roughly 1033 calories, with 20g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (50% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2458mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked. You could also try using sausage for a spicier flavor.
What if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with butter or olive oil. Each option will slightly change the flavor and texture, but will still provide a delicious outcome. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the pot when cooking the potatoes for a nutritious boost.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).