Why Sloppy Joes are Called Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a popular American sandwich consisting of ground beef, onions, tomato sauce or ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and other seasonings, served on a hamburger bun. But have you ever wondered why they are called Sloppy Joes? In this article, we will explore the origins and stories behind this beloved sandwich’s name.
Origin Story 1: Sloppy Joe’s in Havana, Cuba
One theory about the origin of the name “Sloppy Joes” traces back to Havana, Cuba. In the year 1917, a bar owner named José García, also known as “Sloppy Joe,” served a sandwich based on a Cuban dish called ropa vieja. This sandwich consisted of ground beef stewed in tomatoes. The bar’s floor was often wet due to melted ice from iced seafood, leading to the nickname “sloppy.” José García’s establishment, known as Sloppy Joe’s, became a popular spot frequented by Americans and Britons, including notable figures like Errol Flynn, Ernest Hemingway, and Graham Greene.
Origin Story 2: Sioux City, Iowa
Another story suggests that the name “Sloppy Joes” originated in Sioux City, Iowa, in the 1930s. At Floyd Angell’s café, a cook named Joe added tomato sauce to his “loose meat” sandwiches, resulting in a deliciously messy creation. The addition of the tomato sauce gave birth to what we now know as the Sloppy Joe sandwich. This version gained popularity and spread to other regions.
Early Variations
Before the name “Sloppy Joe” became widely recognized, similar sandwiches existed under different names in early and mid-20th century American cookbooks. Recipes for sandwiches resembling Sloppy Joes were referred to as Toasted Deviled Hamburgers, Chopped Meat Sandwiches, Spanish Hamburgers, and various other names. These recipes shared common elements, such as ground meat and flavorful sauces, setting the groundwork for the Sloppy Joe we know today.
Hemingway’s Influence
Ernest Hemingway, the renowned American writer, played a role in further popularizing the name “Sloppy Joe.” It is said that Hemingway convinced Joe Russell, the owner of a bar in Key West, Florida, to rename his establishment. Originally known as the Silver Slipper, the bar was transformed into Sloppy Joe’s, giving the sandwich its iconic name. This association with Hemingway added to the sandwich’s allure and contributed to its widespread recognition.
Commercialization
In the 1960s, food companies recognized the popularity of Sloppy Joes and began producing packaged versions of the sandwich. Products like Manwich, which provided a convenient way to enjoy Sloppy Joes at home, became widely available. These commercial offerings further cemented the sandwich’s place in American cuisine and ensured its enduring popularity.
In conclusion, the name “Sloppy Joes” has its roots in both Cuban and American culinary traditions. Whether it originated from Sloppy Joe’s in Havana or a cook named Joe in Sioux City, the sandwich’s name has become synonymous with its messy and delicious nature. As Sloppy Joes continue to satisfy appetites and bring joy to diners, their name serves as a reminder of the sandwich’s flavorful history.
Sources:
– Blue Apron. “Sloppy Joe History: How It Was Made.” Available at: https://blog.blueapron.com/a-history-of-the-sloppy-jo/
– Wonderopolis. “Why Are They Called Sloppy Joes?” Available at: https://wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-are-they-called-sloppy-joes
– Wikipedia. “Sloppy joe.” Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sloppy_joe
FAQs
Why Sloppy Joes are Called Sloppy Joes
What is the origin of the name “Sloppy Joes”?
The name “Sloppy Joes” has multiple origin stories. One theory suggests that it originated from a bar called Sloppy Joe’s in Havana, Cuba, where a sandwich based on a Cuban dish called ropa vieja was served. Another story proposes that the name came from Sioux City, Iowa, where a cook named Joe added tomato sauce to his “loose meat” sandwiches.
How did Sloppy Joes become popular in America?
Sloppy Joes gained popularity in America through various factors. Notably, Ernest Hemingway’s association with the renaming of a bar in Key West, Florida, to Sloppy Joe’s helped popularize the name. Additionally, the commercialization of packaged Sloppy Joe products in the 1960s, such as Manwich, made the sandwich more accessible and widespread.
What were some early variations of Sloppy Joes?
Early and mid-20th century American cookbooks featured similar recipes to Sloppy Joes under different names. Some of these variations included Toasted Deviled Hamburgers, Chopped Meat Sandwiches, and Spanish Hamburgers.
Who served Sloppy Joes in Havana, Cuba?
In Havana, Cuba, a man named José García, also known as “Sloppy Joe,” served a sandwich based on the Cuban dish ropa vieja in his bar called Sloppy Joe’s. The wet floor of the bar, caused by melted ice from iced seafood, led to the nickname “sloppy.”
How did Ernest Hemingway influence the popularity of Sloppy Joes?
Ernest Hemingway reportedly convinced the owner of a bar in Key West, Florida, to rename it Sloppy Joe’s, which contributed to the widespread recognition of the sandwich. Hemingway’s association with the bar added to the allure and popularity of the name.
When did food companies start producing packaged Sloppy Joe products?
In the 1960s, food companies recognized the popularity of Sloppy Joes and began producing packaged versions of the sandwich. Products like Manwich made it convenient for people to enjoy Sloppy Joes at home.
Are Sloppy Joes still popular today?
Yes, Sloppy Joes remain popular today. They continue to be enjoyed in homes, restaurants, and school cafeterias across America. The versatility and deliciously messy nature of the sandwich have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Are there any regional variations of Sloppy Joes?
Yes, there are regional variations of Sloppy Joes. Different areas may have their own unique twists on the classic recipe, incorporating local flavors and ingredients. Some examples include BBQ Sloppy Joes, Tex-Mex Sloppy Joes, and vegetarian or vegan versions.