Hot dog chili is a classic condiment that takes your hot dog to the next level. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for cookouts, picnics, or just a casual meal at home. The savory, slightly spicy flavor of the chili complements the hot dog and bun, creating a delicious and satisfying bite.
Ingredients for Hot Dog Chili:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hot dogs
- Hot dog buns
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced onions, mustard, ketchup
How to Make Hot Dog Chili:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
- While the chili is simmering, grill or heat your hot dogs according to your preference.
- To serve, place a hot dog in a bun and top with a generous spoonful of hot dog chili. Add any desired toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced onions, mustard, or ketchup.
- Enjoy your delicious hot dog chili!
About the Main Ingredients:
- Ground Beef: The base of the chili, ground beef adds savory flavor and protein.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add depth of flavor to the chili.
- Tomato Sauce: Provides the base and liquid for the chili, as well as a rich tomato flavor.
- Kidney Beans: Add texture and fiber to the chili, as well as a subtle flavor.
- Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper: These spices give the chili its signature flavor, with chili powder providing the main heat, cumin adding earthiness, paprika for a mild sweetness, and cayenne pepper for extra spice.
- Salt and Pepper: Season the chili to taste, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Hot Dogs and Buns: The classic base for hot dog chili, these provide the vehicle for enjoying the delicious chili.
This hot dog chili recipe is sure to become a favorite for your next gathering or weeknight meal. Enjoy!