Proper Bangers Chili Dogs

Proper Bangers Chili Dogs

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Ever get that craving? You know, that hankering for pure American comfort food ? Honestly, sometimes nothing hits the spot like a truly great chili dog .
A Proper Banger: Why These Chili Dogs Are Special
This chili dog recipe isn't just slapping some tinned chili on a frankfurter, mind you. We're talking about a proper, flavourful, homemade experience.
The beauty of a classic chili dog lies in its simplicity. But don't be fooled! It's a dish with a surprising history, born somewhere in the American heartland.
We are elevating this humble fare with a touch of British flair. This recipe takes about 1 hour 55 minutes and makes about 6 servings.
Homemade Chili Dogs : Your New Guilty Pleasure
Let's face it: sometimes you just need some comfort food recipes . Plus, you sneak in some fibre from the beans.
A decent chili cheese dog is the ultimate fast casual treat! What makes this easy chili dog recipe stand out? The homemade chili.
It's got a depth of flavour you just can't get from a tin. We elevate with a snappy sausage and flavourful chilli.
Ingredients for the Proper Chili Dog Recipe
Right, now you're sold on the idea of a chili dog , let's get to the good stuff.
Ingredients & Equipment for Champion Chili Dogs
Right, let's dive into what you need to make these homemade chili dogs a proper feast. I'm not messing about here, these are going to be some seriously good chili cheese dogs ! Honestly, a classic chili dog can sort out any bad day.
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . This is for getting things started.
- Yellow Onion: 1 large (about 1 cup/150g), finely chopped. Go for a nice firm one.
- Garlic: 2 cloves (about 1 teaspoon/5g), minced. Fresh is best.
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 (about ¾ cup/120g), finely chopped. Gives a bit of sweetness.
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g) . Use an 80/20 blend. The fat adds flavour.
- Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . It's a chili dog recipe necessity!.
- Ground Cumin: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) . Earthy and warm.
- Smoked Paprika: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) . Adds a smoky depth.
- Cayenne Pepper: Pinch (optional). If you want a kick!
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can (400g) , undrained.
- Kidney Beans: 1 (15 ounce) can (425g) , rinsed and drained. Essential for any sausage chili recipe .
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (8 ounce) can (225g) .
- Beef Broth or Water: ½ cup (120ml) .
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Adds tang.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . A proper umami bomb.
- Brown Sugar: 1 teaspoon (5ml) , packed. Just a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!
- Beef Sausages: 6 , about 5 inches (12cm) long. High-quality is key.
- Hot Dog Buns: 6 . Get soft, squishy ones.
- Toppings: Shredded cheddar, diced onion, yellow mustard, relish. The best chili dog toppings are up to you!.
Seasoning: Spice It Up Right!
The secret to a belting chili lies in layering flavours. Don't skip the smoked paprika. Honestly, it makes a huge difference.
If you don't have apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar works alright. I reckon that a simple mix of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika is the base.
It's a proper flavor base that you can build on.
Essential Equipment
Right, you'll need a big pot. A Dutch oven is ideal, but any heavy-bottomed pot will do. Tongs are handy for the sausages.
Otherwise, just the usual chopping board, knife, and measuring bits. No need to over complicate it. Some people will use a small sauce pan for steaming sausages, I don't!
And that’s all there is to it. Once you have these things sorted, you're ready to get started on the easy chili dog recipe ! It's simple American comfort food at its finest, and trust me, you'll feel the cozy vibes of other comfort food recipes from the first bite!
Cooking Up a Storm: My Take on Chili Dogs
Right then, let's have a chinwag about chili dogs . Honestly, who doesn't love them? They're proper comfort food recipes , aren't they? But not all chili dogs are created equal.
My homemade chili dogs are something special. I remember one time. I tried to make these while camping and it was a total disaster because I had the wrong pan! Anyway, I've perfected my chili dog recipe now, so you can get started!
Prep Steps: Ace Your Mise en Place
First things first, let's get organised. Chop 1 large yellow onion, mince 2 cloves of garlic, and dice 1 red bell pepper.
Open the cans of diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce. This essential mise en place will save you a right headache later.
Organisation is key, innit?
Step-by-Step: Nail Those Chili Dogs
- Sauté the chopped onion in 1 tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil until softened.
- Add garlic and bell pepper, cooking until fragrant. That smell is wicked.
- Brown 1 pound (450g) of ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy chili cheese dog !
- Stir in 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder, ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) cumin, ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional). Cook for 1 minute .
- Add canned goods, ½ cup (120ml) beef broth, 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon (5ml) brown sugar.
- Simmer the hot dog chili sauce for at least 1 hour , covered. The longer, the better, to get those deep flavors .
- While the chili simmers away, cook your 6 high-quality beef sausages . Grill them up, pan-fry, or steam them as preferred.
- Assemble the classic chili dog ! Place a sausage in each bun and smother it in that tasty chili. Add your favorite best chili dog toppings like cheese and mustard and enjoy!.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Dogs
Don't skimp on the toppings! Think cheese, onions, mustard. Allowing the chili to simmer for longer than 1 hour for a richer, more developed flavour is the key.
Two or three hours is even better. If you're feeling lazy, use a pre-made sausage chili recipe . But honestly, homemade's always best, you know? Plus, these are an easy chili dog recipe !
Recipe Notes
Right then, let's talk about these homemade chili dogs . Honestly, there's more than one way to skin a cat, innit? Here's how to make them bloody brilliant.
I learned a thing or two while making this chili dog recipe , and you can too!
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Presentation matters, even with comfort food recipes like chili dogs . Think vibrant! Pile that gorgeous hot dog chili sauce high. Sprinkle on that cheddar.
For a posh touch, arrange them on a wooden board. Serve with crunchy pickles or some homemade coleslaw, classic American comfort food companions. A pint of lager? Oh my gosh, perfect.
Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the chili separately. This prevents soggy buns.
Chili keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it! I use freezer bags.
It stays good for up to 3 months . Reheat gently on the hob. Add a splash of water if needed.
Variations: Mix It Up a Bit
Fancy a twist? Go veggie! Swap the beef for lentils or a plant-based mince. Honestly, you won’t miss the meat.
For a low-carb option, ditch the bun. Serve the chili cheese dog mixture over cauliflower rice. Seasonal? Summer calls for grilled corn. Chop it up and add it to the chili. Boom!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Let's be real, chili dogs aren't health food. But they can be part of a balanced diet. This easy chili dog recipe packs protein and fiber.
Each serving has around 550-650 calories. It's a treat. But it's also soul-satisfying. It's important to use lean beef. Try a wholemeal bun for added fiber.
It is like a better version of your Classic chili dog .
So there you have it. A few notes to make your chili dogs proper special. Give it a go. Let me know how it turns out.
You'll nail it, I know you will! This sausage chili recipe will become your new favourite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to cook the sausages for my chili dogs?
There are several great ways to cook sausages for chili dogs! Grilling will give them a lovely smoky flavour, perfect for a BBQ. Pan-frying in a little oil gives a nice crispy skin, or you can simply steam them if you prefer a softer texture. Just make sure they're heated through properly – nobody wants a lukewarm banger!
Can I make the chili for these chili dogs ahead of time?
Absolutely, in fact, I'd recommend it! Like a good stew, the chili tastes even better the next day as the flavours have a chance to meld together. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Are there any vegetarian options for these chili dogs?
Definitely! You can easily make vegetarian chili dogs by swapping the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like lentils, crumbled tempeh or a vegetarian ground meat substitute. Make sure to also use veggie sausages and vegetable broth. You might even find some tasty vegetarian frankfurter alternatives in the shops these days – worth a look!
How can I spice up my chili dog recipe?
Feeling brave, are we? To ramp up the heat in your chili, add a pinch more cayenne pepper, or even a finely chopped scotch bonnet chilli along with the onions and peppers. You could also use a spicier sausage, like a chorizo, for an extra kick. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can't take it away!
What are some tasty topping ideas for these chili dogs besides the usual mustard and onions?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Think about adding some zing with pickled jalapenos, a dollop of sour cream or even a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for some crunch. For a bit of freshness, try some diced avocado or a spoonful of coleslaw, which is classic for Carolina-style chili dogs. A proper cheesy sauce never goes amiss either!
How should I store leftover chili to enjoy more chili dogs later?
To store leftover chili, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. Properly stored, the chili should be good for 3-4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.