Jeff's Hot Dog Chili Recipe

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

Craving chili dogs? This homemade hot dog chili recipe is so much better than the canned version. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you'll have the perfect topping for your hot dogs in no time!

Hot Dog Chili vs. Regular Chili
Hot dog chili is usually a bit sweeter than traditional chili and is often made with ketchup. Its the ideal topping for your dogs, offering a savory-sweet kick that pairs perfectly with the meat and bun.

Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- cup water
- 5 ounces tomato sauce
- cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- teaspoon salt
- teaspoon ground black pepper
- teaspoon white sugar (or to taste)
- teaspoon onion powder
- 1 dash Worcestershire sauce

Tip: You can use ground turkey instead of beef. If you do, add a little oil to the saucepan before cooking.

How to Make Hot Dog Chili:

Step 1: Begin by placing the ground beef and water into a large saucepan. Use a potato masher to break the beef apart as it starts to cook.

Step 2: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, chili powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the beef is fully cooked and the chili thickens.

Step 4: Once the chili has thickened, it's ready to be served! Spoon it over your hot dogs and enjoy the delicious homemade topping.

How to Make Hot Dogs:
Now that youve got your chili ready, its time to cook the hot dogs! For a full guide on how to cook hot dogs in various ways (grilling, boiling, pan-frying, etc.), check out our detailed How to Cook Hot Dogs 8 Different Ways guide.

How to Store Hot Dog Chili:
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, on the stove, or in a slow cooker.

Can You Freeze Hot Dog Chili?
Yes, this chili freezes wonderfully! Store it in an airtight in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Community Tips and Praise:
"This recipe took me back to eating hot dogs at the baseball field. Its simple, yet so delicious, and my friends always rave about it!" - Allrecipes Community Member
"If you like your chili on the sweeter side, this recipe is a winner. I add a bit of garlic salt, and it's perfect every time." - Chris Hopkins
"Best chili Ive ever had for hot dogs. I added a little chopped onion for extra flavor, and now Ill never use another recipe!" - macinnis_family

Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 168
- Total Fat: 9g (12% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 4g (18% DV)
- Cholesterol: 47mg (16% DV)
- Sodium: 595mg (26% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g (3% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% DV)
- Total Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 14g (27% DV)
- Vitamin C: 5mg (6% DV)
- Calcium: 17mg (1% DV)
- Iron: 2mg (10% DV)
- Potassium: 332mg (7% DV)

Hot dogs topped with chili are a classic American comfort food, beloved by many. Jeffs Hot Dog Chili, a hearty and flavorful chili without beans, has become a go-to recipe for anyone craving a delicious topping for their hot dog. Let's dive into its rich history, regional variations, and the uniqueness that makes it stand out from other chili recipes.

Origin of Hot Dog Chili

The story of hot dog chili dates back to the early 20th century, when hot dogs were gaining popularity at baseball parks, fairs, and street vendors across the United States. While hot dogs themselves have a history stretching back to Europe, chili as a topping became distinctly American. It is believed that chili was first paired with hot dogs in the Midwest and Southern United States, where it evolved into a hearty meat-based topping. Over time, each region put its own twist on the recipe, but the chili typically remained a meaty, spicy concoction designed to complement the mild flavor of the hot dog.

Regional Variations

Hot dog chili is enjoyed in different forms depending on where you are in the United States. In the South, particularly in places like North Carolina and West Virginia, chili served on hot dogs is often rich in flavor, slightly sweet, and thinner in consistency. Jeff's Hot Dog Chili follows this regional tradition, using ketchup and a touch of sugar to give it that unmistakable sweetness that sets it apart from traditional chili. In contrast, some regions prefer a thicker, more robust chili with beans, a variation that is closer to the chili served as a standalone dish. What's special about Jeffs recipe is its simplicity and its focus on the chilis flavor, which perfectly complements the hot dog without overpowering it.

What Makes Jeff's Hot Dog Chili Different

While there are many chili recipes out there, what sets Jeffs Hot Dog Chili apart is its perfect balance of ingredients that create a mild yet flavorful sauce. Unlike traditional chili, this version excludes beans, which makes it a smoother topping that wont overwhelm the hot dog. Additionally, the inclusion of Worcestershire sauce and sugar adds a depth of flavor that enhances the chilis savory and slightly sweet profile. It's not overly spicy, making it suitable for a wide range of tastes, from those who enjoy mild chili to those who prefer a little heat.

Where is Hot Dog Chili Typically Served?

Hot dog chili is most commonly served at casual dining spots like ballparks, cookouts, and fast food joints. Its a popular topping for hot dogs at American fairs and festivals, often served alongside classic sides like fries, onion rings, or coleslaw. While hot dog chili is a favorite in the Southern and Midwestern United States, it has spread across the nation and even overseas, where its sometimes adapted with local flavors. For example, in some areas, people might add cheese, jalapeos, or even chopped onions to further enhance the chili dog experience.

Interesting Facts About Hot Dog Chili

• One of the earliest documented hot dog chili recipes dates back to the 1920s, and it was used by street vendors selling hot dogs in New York City.
• The term "Coney Island chili" refers to a specific type of chili dog that uses a thicker, meat-based chili sauce similar to Jeffs recipe, and its a staple in Michigan and parts of Ohio.
• Some variations of hot dog chili include finely chopped onions or garlic, which adds a nice kick to the flavor.
• In some Southern states, hot dog chili is also known as "slaw dog chili," especially when it is served with a topping of homemade coleslaw alongside the chili.

Jeffs Hot Dog Chili recipe has become a crowd-pleaser, not just for its taste, but for its versatility. Whether youre hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a comforting meal, this chili will elevate your hot dog experience.

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