The Nostalgic Charm of the Ben Franklin Five and Dime Loose Meat Sandwich

I can still picture it: the linoleum floors, the scent of penny candy mingling with freshly brewed coffee, and the comforting murmur of conversations at the lunch counter. The local Ben Franklin Five and Dime was a Saturday afternoon ritual with my grandmother. While she browsed the notions and fabrics, I’d park myself on a red vinyl stool, mesmerized by the soda fountain. But the real star was the loose meat sandwich—a savory, slightly sloppy concoction that tasted like pure, unadulterated happiness. It wasn’t just a sandwich; it was a memory, a feeling, a taste of simpler times.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 sandwiches
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 lb hamburger meat
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup coleslaw
• 6 small hamburger buns

Equipment Needed

• Deep frying pan
• Spatula or spoon

Instructions

1. Start by placing the hamburger meat into a deep frying pan.
2. Crumble and break up the hamburger meat with a spatula or spoon, ensuring there are no large clumps.
3. Place the frying pan over medium heat and begin to brown the hamburger meat. Continue to break the meat into smaller bits as it cooks.
4. As the meat begins to brown, add the salt and pepper. Continue to stir and break up the meat to ensure even seasoning.
5. Once the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, drain off any excess grease from the pan. This will help to prevent the sandwich from becoming too greasy.
6. Add the ketchup and flour to the browned hamburger meat.
7. Mix the ketchup and flour thoroughly into the meat, ensuring that everything is well combined. The flour will help to thicken the mixture slightly.
8. Continue to cook the mixture for another minute over medium heat, stirring constantly. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the flour to fully incorporate.
9. Warm the hamburger buns. This can be done by lightly toasting them in a toaster or warming them in a low oven for a few minutes.
10. Spoon the cooked meat mixture generously onto the warm hamburger buns.
11. Top each sandwich with a generous helping of coleslaw.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Lean Meat is Key: Using lean ground beef helps minimize grease. If you’re using a higher fat content, make sure to drain the excess fat thoroughly after browning.
• Flour Power: The flour acts as a thickening agent, but don’t overdo it. Too much flour can make the mixture pasty. If you want a slightly sweeter flavour consider trying a tablespoon of brown sugar, molasses or maple syrup.
• Spice it Up: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Bun Boost: Lightly toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy from the meat mixture. A little butter brushed on the buns before toasting adds extra flavor.
• Coleslaw Choice: Opt for a creamy coleslaw for a classic flavor, or try a vinegar-based slaw for a tangy contrast.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Ben Franklin Five and Dime Loose Meat Sandwich immediately after assembly for the best taste and texture. The warm meat and the crisp, cool coleslaw create a delightful contrast.

Leftover meat mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving on fresh buns with coleslaw.

It is not recommended to freeze the meat mixture, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	331.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	124 g	38%
Total Fat	13.8 g	21%
Saturated Fat	5 g	25%
Cholesterol	53 mg	17%
Sodium	565.9 mg	23%
Total Carbohydrate	31.7 g	10%
Dietary Fiber	1.5 g	5%
Sugars	5 g	N/A
Protein	19.3 g	38%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free hamburger buns and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in finely chopped onions or bell peppers when browning the meat for added flavor and nutrients.
• Sweet and Tangy: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the meat mixture for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Coleslaw Alternative: If you’re not a fan of coleslaw, try topping the sandwich with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite dressing.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option.

Q: What kind of coleslaw is best for this sandwich?
A: A creamy coleslaw is classic, but a vinegar-based coleslaw adds a tangy contrast. Choose your favorite!

Q: How can I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
A: Lightly toasting the buns before adding the meat mixture helps to keep them from getting soggy.

Q: Can I freeze the meat mixture?
A: It’s not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy the leftovers within a few days of making it.

Final Thoughts

This Ben Franklin Five and Dime Loose Meat Sandwich is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back in time. It’s a taste of nostalgia, a simple pleasure that reminds us of simpler days. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the comforting flavors for yourself. Don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch and make it your own. Share your creations with loved ones, and perhaps start a new tradition! Perhaps pair it with an old-fashioned root beer float to complete the experience. Enjoy!