Coney Island Hot Dogs Recipe

Hot dogs: The main protein, typically made from beef or pork, that will be grilled or cooked in a skillet.

Hot dog buns: Soft, split rolls that hold the hot dogs and toppings.

Ground beef: Used to make the savory meat sauce that tops the hot dogs.

Onion: Finely chopped and used both in the meat sauce and as a fresh topping.

Garlic: Minced and added to the meat sauce for extra flavor.

Tomato sauce: Forms the base of the meat sauce, adding richness and moisture.

Chili powder: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the meat sauce.

Ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor to the meat sauce.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity to the meat sauce.

Yellow mustard: A tangy condiment that complements the savory meat sauce and fresh onions.

When cooking the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula. This ensures an even texture and allows the spices and sauce to coat the meat thoroughly. Additionally, when simmering the meat sauce, keep the heat low and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This will help develop a rich, deep flavor.

• hot dogs - Substitute with veggie dogs: For a vegetarian option, veggie dogs provide a similar texture and flavor.

• hot dog buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns add more fiber and nutrients while maintaining the classic hot dog experience.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option that reduces fat content while still providing a similar texture.

• small onion, finely chopped - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter flavor that can enhance the dish.

• garlic, minced - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch and provides a similar flavor profile.

• tomato sauce - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a quick substitute, though it will add a bit more sweetness.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika offers a milder heat and a slightly smoky flavor, making it a good alternative.

• ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander provides a different but complementary flavor that can add depth to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can reduce the need for additional salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat and can be used for a more subtle peppery flavor.

• yellow mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard offers a more complex and tangy flavor that can elevate the dish.

• small onion, finely chopped (for topping) - Substitute with green onions: Green onions provide a fresh, mild flavor and a pop of color for the topping.

• Allow the meat sauce to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to soggy hot dog buns.
• Transfer the cooled meat sauce into an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the meat sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
• To freeze, place the meat sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• When ready to use, thaw the meat sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• For the hot dogs, store them in their original packaging or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If freezing hot dogs, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Hot dog buns can be stored at room temperature in their original packaging for a few days. For longer storage, freeze them.
• To freeze hot dog buns, place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use frozen hot dog buns, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven wrapped in foil for a few minutes.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap each hot dog in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.

• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the hot dogs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a bit of olive oil to the pan. Place the hot dogs in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are evenly warmed.

• To reheat the meat sauce, place it in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. You can add a splash of tomato sauce or water if it becomes too thick.

• For the hot dog buns, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, you can wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven for the last 5 minutes of reheating the hot dogs.

• If you have a steamer, you can use it to reheat both the hot dogs and buns. Place the hot dogs and buns in the steamer basket and steam for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.

• For a grilled flavor, reheat the hot dogs on a grill over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally. Toast the buns on the grill for the last minute.

• Saucepan: Used to cook the ground beef and simmer the meat sauce.

• Skillet: Ideal for cooking or grilling the hot dogs.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring the ground beef and mixing the ingredients.

• Knife: Essential for finely chopping the onions and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping onions and garlic.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the tomato sauce and ground beef.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the hot dogs while cooking or grilling.

• Serving spoon: Perfect for ladling the meat sauce onto the hot dogs.

• Bowl: Convenient for holding the chopped onions for topping.

Pre-cook the beef: Cook the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly reheat it when you're ready to make the Coney Island hot dogs.

Use pre-chopped onions: Save time by buying pre-chopped onions or using a food processor to chop them quickly.

Simmer in bulk: Make a large batch of the meat sauce and freeze portions. This allows you to have ready-made sauce for future meals.

Grill multiple hot dogs: Cook all the hot dogs at once on a grill or skillet to save time.