Appalachian Style Hot Dog Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets this hot dog sauce apart from others is its deep, hearty flavors that balance tanginess with a bit of spice. The savory beef is simmered in a tangy vinegar-based sauce, which gives it a distinct Appalachian twist. This sauce isn’t just for hot dogs – it’s versatile enough to use on burgers, fries, or even over a baked potato for an easy comfort meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great addition to any busy kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup water

• 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoon yellow mustard

• 2 tablespoon ketchup

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks.

2. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat, if needed.

3. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

4. Stir in the water, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.

6. Once the sauce reaches your desired thickness, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving on your favorite hot dog.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes enough sauce for about 6-8 hot dogs.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce to turn up the heat.

• Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version of this sauce.

• Sweet: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of brown sugar or add a tablespoon of honey.

• Smoky: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smokier flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover hot dog sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make the Appalachian Style Hot Dog Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It actually gets better as it sits and the flavors continue to meld.

2. Can I freeze the hot dog sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.

3. Can I use a different kind of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different twist.

4. How can I make this sauce spicier?

To make the sauce spicier, simply add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño pepper. Adjust the heat to your preference.

5. Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.

6. Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of brown sugar. You can also try using honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.

7. How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat a hot dog, but not so thick that it’s dry. If it thickens too much during cooking, add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

8. Can I use this sauce for other dishes?

Definitely! This hot dog sauce works great as a topping for burgers, fries, or even a baked potato. You can also use it in chili or as a dipping sauce for snacks.

9. How long does the sauce last in the fridge?

This sauce will last in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

10. Can I double or halve the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or halve the recipe depending on how many people you’re serving. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Appalachian Style Hot Dog Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make topping that brings a unique twist to your hot dogs. Whether you're hosting a BBQ or enjoying a casual meal at home, this sauce is sure to be a hit. With its bold flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone looking to spice up their hot dog game. Enjoy the rich, tangy goodness of this Appalachian classic and make your next hot dog experience unforgettable!

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