Korean-Inspired Sloppy Joes and Quick Pickles

Deselect All

Pickles:

1 seedless English cucumber or 4 small Persian or Kirby cucumbers

About 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar 

2 tablespoons superfine sugar 

1 tablespoon gochugaru Korean chili flakes or chili paste 

1 1/2 teaspoons salt 

1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil 

1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds 

Sloppy Joes:

1 Asian pear or Bosc pear

1 onion, red or yellow 

4 cloves garlic 

1 inch ginger root 

Neutral oil, such as peanut or safflower 

1 pound ground beef 

1/2 pound ground pork 

Salt and pepper 

1 tablespoon soy sauce 

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, Lea and Perrins preferred brand 

1/3 cup gochujang Korean paste, Mother in Law's preferred brand

1 cup beef or chicken stock 

1 tablespoon light brown sugar 

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil 

4 to 6 soft large hamburger rolls, Big Marty's preferred brand

4 scallions, whites and greens, chopped 

2 green chilies, fresh finger or jalapeno, or pickled jalapeno peppers