Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce

Elevate your hot dog game with this Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce! A savory blend of spices, ground beef, and tomato paste creates a mouthwatering topping perfect for any summer barbecue or family gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 minced onion
• 2 tablespoons of chili powder
• ½ teaspoon of salt (or to your liking)
• ¼ teaspoon of ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon of ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin
• ⅛ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ⅙ teaspoon of ground black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• ¼ cup of tomato paste
• 2 cups of water
• 12 hot dogs
• 12 hot dog buns
• Toppings: 2 minced onions, prepared yellow mustard, optional grated cheddar

Instructions

1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in the minced onions and cook until softened.
3. Add chili powder, salt, allspice, ground mustard, garlic powder, cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. Stir well to combine.
4. Mix in the tomato paste and pour in the water. Stir until smooth.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your desired consistency. Coney Island sauce is typically a bit runny.

Helpful Tips

• Adjust spices to your taste! If you love heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper.
• Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent burning at the bottom of the pan.
• Experiment with toppings! Minced jalapeños or relish adds a nice crunch, and cheddar cheese is a delicious addition.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving: Calories: 451 | Total Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0g | Unsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Protein: 22g

Tips for Perfecting Your Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce

When it comes to crafting the perfect Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce, attention to detail is key. Start with the quality of your ingredients; using fresh spices and high-quality ground beef can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your sauce. Freshness not only elevates the taste but also ensures that every bite is a delightful experience. Consider sourcing your spices from a local market or specialty store where they have a high turnover, ensuring that you re using spices that pack a punch. The right balance of flavors is essential, so don t hesitate to tweak the spices to suit your palate.

Cooking Techniques to Enhance Flavor

The method of cooking your Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce plays a crucial role in developing its rich flavors. Sautéing the onions until golden brown before adding the ground beef not only adds sweetness but also builds a solid flavor foundation. Browning the beef well enhances the Maillard reaction—this is what gives your sauce that deep, savory flavor that is characteristic of a great hot dog topping. Moreover, allowing the sauce to simmer for an extended period helps the flavors meld beautifully, so patience is a virtue in this recipe. Stirring occasionally ensures that the sauce doesn t stick to the bottom of the pan, allowing for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions for Your Hot Dog Sauce

While this Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce is delightful on its own, you can elevate your serving experience by offering various toppings and sides. Consider setting up a hot dog bar for your summer barbecue, where guests can customize their hot dogs with toppings like minced onions, relish, jalapeños, or even avocado slices. For a gourmet twist, try serving your hot dogs in specialty buns, such as pretzel or brioche buns. Pair your hot dogs with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or fresh corn on the cob for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.

Storage Tips for Leftover Sauce

If you find yourself with leftover Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce, don t fret! This sauce is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure that it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you d like to keep it for longer, consider freezing the sauce in portion-sized containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. This way, you can enjoy delicious hot dogs anytime without the hassle of making the sauce from scratch again.

Perfect Pairings for Your Coney Island Hot Dogs

To truly enjoy your Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce, think about what beverages and sides will complement the flavors. A crisp, refreshing soda or a light lager pairs beautifully with the spicy and savory notes of the sauce. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, homemade lemonade or iced tea can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the hot dogs. As for sides, consider serving your hot dogs with crunchy potato chips or homemade fries, which can add a delightful texture to your meal. The combination of flavors and textures will ensure that your summer gathering is a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of the Classic Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce, replace the ground beef with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives for a similar texture while keeping the flavors intact.

How can I adjust the heat level of the sauce?

If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding additional chili powder or even some diced jalapeños during the cooking process.

How long can I store the sauce?

Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it in airtight containers.

What are some good toppings for Coney Island Hot Dogs?

Classic toppings include minced onions, yellow mustard, and grated cheddar cheese. You can also get creative with toppings like jalapeños, relish, or even coleslaw for extra crunch!

Can this hot dog sauce be made in advance?

Yes! In fact, making this sauce a day in advance can enhance its flavors, as they continue to meld together. Simply reheat it when you re ready to serve!