Clare & Carl’s Famous Michigan Sauce

Clare & Carl’s Famous Michigan Sauce is a savory meat-based sauce traditionally served over hot dogs or burgers. Originating from Michigan, this sauce is known for its rich flavor and hearty texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato ketchup
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment:

• Skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Detailed Instructions:

1. Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add Aromatics: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in tomato ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
5. Serve: Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce is typically served hot over grilled hot dogs or burgers, topped with diced onions and mustard.

What to Serve with Clare & Carl’s Famous Michigan Sauce

• Hot Dogs: Serve over grilled or steamed hot dogs with chopped onions and mustard.
• Burgers: Use as a topping for burgers along with cheese, lettuce, and tomato.

What Does the Recipe Taste Like?

Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce has a robust and tangy flavor with hints of sweetness from the brown sugar and depth from the spices. It adds a savory punch to grilled meats.

How Healthy is This Recipe?

Clare & Carl’s Famous Michigan Sauce is a beloved regional specialty hailing from Plattsburgh, New York. This sauce, typically served over hot dogs, is a blend of ground beef, tomato paste, onions, and a secret mix of spices. While it’s a staple in the local cuisine, questions often arise about its nutritional value and health implications. In this article, we’ll explore the healthiness of Clare & Carl’s Famous Michigan Sauce by examining its ingredients, nutritional content, and potential health benefits and drawbacks.

Ingredients Analysis:

• Ground Beef: Ground beef is the primary ingredient in Michigan Sauce. It is a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. However, the healthiness of ground beef can vary based on its fat content. Lean ground beef contains less saturated fat, which is better for heart health compared to higher-fat versions.
• Tomato Paste: Tomato paste is rich in vitamins A and C, and lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. It adds depth of flavor and a dose of nutrition to the sauce.
• Onions: Onions are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. They contain antioxidants and compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects and may contribute to heart health.
• Spices: The blend of spices used in Michigan Sauce can vary, but they often include garlic, paprika, and sometimes chili powder. Spices not only add flavor but also offer various health benefits. For instance, garlic has been shown to have antibacterial properties, while paprika contains antioxidants.

Health Benefits:

1. Protein Content: The ground beef provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes, and supporting overall body function.
2. Antioxidants: Ingredients like tomato paste and spices add antioxidants to the sauce, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Vitamins and Minerals: Onions and tomato paste contribute vitamins A, C, and several B vitamins, which are crucial for maintaining good health.

Clare & Carl’s Famous Michigan Sauce, like many regional delicacies, offers both nutritional benefits and potential drawbacks. The sauce is a good source of protein and antioxidants, thanks to its core ingredients of ground beef, tomato paste, and spices. However, it is also relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium, which should be considered when incorporating it into a healthy diet. By choosing leaner ground beef and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy the unique flavor of Michigan Sauce while keeping your diet balanced and nutritious.

Recipe Variation:

• Spicy Michigan Sauce: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils.

Conclusion

Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce is a classic recipe that elevates any grilled dish with its hearty and flavorful profile. Perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners.

5 FAQs About Clare & Carl’s Famous Michigan Sauce

1.Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

• Yes, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

2.What can I use instead of ground beef?

• Ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives to ground beef.

3.Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

• Yes, adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.

4.Is this sauce gluten-free?

• Ensure all ingredients used are gluten-free for a gluten-free version.

5.Can I use this sauce for other dishes?

• It can be used as a flavorful topping for fries, nachos, or even as a dip.