It seems everywhere you go in this country there is some regional food that is the big thing in that area. Everyone talks about it and if you are a visitor the locals tell you "Oh you gotta try that, you aint had nothin till you've had that". Its that way in Rochester and Buffalo as well here its red hots, white hots, grape pies and garbage plates. The original garbage plate was created by Nick Tahoe the owner of a food establishment by the same name. Nick is gone now but his establishment and many others still continue to make this concoction that is so loved by the locals.
When my daughter and her boyfriend discovered it recently I knew I would have to come up with a version that was both delicious and acceptable to be consumed in our home. I'm not really a fan but I didn't want them to go elsewhere so this is what I came up with.
First make a good version of Mac salad, using dream fields elbow macaroni, veganaise, mustard, relish, onion and red peppers. Season it well with salt and pepper and place in the fridge to get cold.
Next put some Alexis brand french fries or home fries (can use sweet potato fries) in the oven. Follow the directions and bake them until crispy.
Now make sloppy joe's with your favorite vegetarian grounds, and sauce.
Ok when everything is done baking and cooking its time to assemble. It goes like this: Mac Salad, French Fries, then the Sloppy Joes. You top this all off with chopped onion, mustard and some hot sauce if you like.
There are many versions of this throughout our area some add baked beans ( you can use Bush's vegetarian beans) and some versions use sausage or hot dogs (there are vegetarian versions of both of these)
The important thing is to make it as disgusting as can be tolerated. But by making it yourself you can have a healthier version.
