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This savory hot dog chili is my secret for making summer cookouts totally unforgettable. It comes together with simple ingredients but packs a craveable punch that everyone loves spooned over grilled hot dogs.
I discovered how crowd pleasing this chili was at a backyard bash when I first tossed it together. Now it has become a permanent fixture at family gatherings and my teens will not touch a hot dog without it.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: gives body and hearty flavor I always look for a bright red grind with just a bit of marbling
- Garlic: fresh cloves make all the difference and add real depth mince them very fine
- Yellow mustard: brings a classic tartness that cuts the richness of the beef choose a traditional tangy brand
- Ketchup: for sweetness and that nostalgic taste I use no high fructose corn syrup types
- Brown sugar: a touch enhances the sauce with molasses notes use soft brown sugar packed into the measuring spoon
- Worcestershire sauce: creates umami and rounds out the tang buy a good aged version for best flavor
- Tomato sauce: ties all the flavors together use plain tomato sauce without added herbs or sugar
- Salt and pepper: use sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for the best taste
- Cumin: pumps up the smoky chili flavor always pick ground cumin with a strong aroma
- Chili powder: adds color warmth and complexity check labels for blends with paprika and spices
- Garlic powder: underlines the fresh garlic for more layered flavor grab a fine textured powder with no added salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Spice it Up:
- Place a large skillet on medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Season generously with salt pepper garlic powder chili powder and cumin. Sauté until the beef is browned throughout making sure there are no pink spots left and the seasoning is evenly dispersed. This foundation bombards your chili with flavor from the start. Drain off any extra fat if you want a leaner topping.
- Bring in Big Flavor:
- Add the minced garlic yellow mustard Worcestershire sauce ketchup and brown sugar right to the skillet. Use a sturdy wooden spoon to stir and mingle everything together so the aromatics coat every bit of meat. Heating this mix unlocks the tangy richness of the sauce.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Pour the tomato sauce over the meat mixture. Turn the heat down to low and let your chili gently bubble away for five to ten minutes. This simmer thickens the sauce combines the flavors and gives you time to taste for extra salt or spice. Stir a couple times to prevent sticking.
- Serve it Up:
- Once the chili has thickened to your liking load generous spoonfuls over grilled hot dogs tucked into buns. Top with cheese onions or whatever your crew loves. Serve straight away for the freshest flavor.
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Our family gets nostalgic over ketchup in this sauce reminding us of classic baseball games. The combination of mustard and Worcestershire always sparks memories of summer picnics with cousins and laughter echoing across the lawn.
Storage Tips
Let any leftover chili cool to room temperature before sealing it in an airtight container. It holds in the fridge for three days. For longer storage ladle it into freezer bags in single servings squeeze out all the air and it keeps for up to two months. Defrost slowly in the fridge overnight then reheat slowly on the stove to keep the sauce silky and not grainy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap half the beef for ground turkey or plant based mince without sacrificing texture. If you want a touch more heat stir in a diced jalapeno with the garlic. Out of ketchup Use a little tomato paste blended with a splash of vinegar and a sprinkle of sugar for balanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This chili transforms jacket potatoes loaded nachos or even oven baked fries. Try ladling it over mac and cheese for a fun game day meal. Set up a build your own hot dog bar with your favorite toppings and let everyone customize their plate.
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Cultural and Historical Context
Hot dog chili has roots in classic American diners where cooks wanted a rich hearty topping that sits nicely over hot dogs without sliding off. The interplay of beef and a spice laced tomato sauce became legendary especially across the South and Midwest. Today every region seems to have its own twist making it a cherished cookout tradition.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes this chili topping unique?
This topping stands out due to a blend of ground beef, tomato sauce, tangy mustard, sweet brown sugar, and classic spices, providing a savory-sweet balance ideal for grilled hot dogs.
- → Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, prepare ahead and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier for future meals.
- → How do I adjust the spiciness?
Increase chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat. Adjust seasoning to your preference during the simmering step.
- → Can other proteins be used instead of beef?
Yes, try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option without compromising the flavor.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
Beyond hot dogs, this chili is tasty over burgers, fries, baked potatoes, or served as a dip with tortilla chips at gatherings.