If you’re a fan of hot dogs, you know that the toppings can make or break the experience. This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a game-changer! This savory, slightly spicy sauce is a regional favorite, known for its rich flavor and perfect consistency. Whether you’re hosting a cookout, craving a nostalgic taste of West Virginia, or just looking to elevate your hot dog game, this chili sauce is a must-try. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this delicious chili sauce, including step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and why this recipe is a must-try. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hot Dog Chili Sauce
- Savory and Spicy: The perfect balance of flavors to complement your hot dogs.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Versatile: Great for hot dogs, burgers, fries, or even as a dip.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at cookouts, game days, and family dinners.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chili sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients
- Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the chili sauce over your favorite hot dogs, burgers, or fries.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips for Customization
- Add Heat: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño for extra spice.
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils instead of beef.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers or celery for added texture.
- Make It Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version of this sauce.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chili sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this sauce spicier?
Absolutely! Add more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to increase the heat.
4. What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can use water or vegetable broth as a substitute.
Final Thoughts
This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a savory, spicy, and flavorful topping that’s perfect for elevating your hot dogs or burgers. With its rich taste and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us. Happy cooking!
