Spicy Chili Dogs with Bold Flavors and Unique Toppings

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Spicy Chili Dogs with are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, featuring smoky, spicy chili sauce slathered over grilled smoked sausages nestled in a toasted bun. Inspired by the renowned Ben’s Chili Bowl half-smoke dogs in Washington DC, this recipe is designed for those who appreciate bold flavors and hearty meals. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a game-day gathering, or simply indulging in comfort food, these chili dogs will impress everyone at the table. Get ready to dive into a world of flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chili Dogs with

There are countless reasons to love Spicy Chili Dogs with. First, they combine the rich flavors of homemade chili with juicy, smoky sausages, making each bite a taste sensation. Second, they are incredibly versatile; you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Third, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Fourth, they offer a fun and interactive dining experience, allowing guests to build their own chili dogs. Fifth, they are a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Lastly, they showcase the unique characteristics of American cuisine, making them a must-try. With spicy hot dogs with chili as a base, you can easily turn these into gourmet spicy chili hot dogs that elevate your meal.

Ingredients for Spicy Chili Dogs with

Gather these items:

3 tsp smoked paprika (or plain paprika as a substitute)
3 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp mustard powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1/2 onion, finely chopped
1/2 red capsicum (bell pepper), finely chopped
500 g (1 lb) ground beef (beef mince)
1 tbsp tomato paste
400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomato
2 beef stock cubes (such as Oxo), crumbled
1 1/2 cups water
3/4 tsp cooking or kosher salt, plus more to taste
6 good smoked sausages (kransky, bratwurst, half-smoke, or hot dogs of choice)
6 hot dog buns
1/2 white onion, finely chopped
Yellow mustard (Heinz American mustard preferred)
2 cups shredded Colby or Monterey Jack cheese (or cheese of choice)
Plain crinkle cut potato chips (optional side)

How to Make Spicy Chili Dogs with Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, mustard powder, and black pepper. Set aside this spice blend to add flavor to the chili sauce later.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and red capsicum. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, around 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Stir in the tomato paste and the prepared chili spice mix. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors while stirring continuously to coat the beef evenly.
Step 5: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, crumble in the beef stock cubes, and add water along with 3/4 teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer uncovered for approximately 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and develop rich flavors.
Step 6: For a smoother texture similar to the Ben’s Chili Bowl style, use an immersion blender directly in the pan to blitz the chili sauce briefly. This step releases more flavor and thickens the sauce to cling better to the sausages.
Step 7: While the chili simmers, cook the smoked sausages by pan-frying or grilling until thoroughly heated and nicely browned, about 8-10 minutes, turning to cook evenly.
Step 8: Lightly toast the hot dog buns. Place a cooked sausage in each bun, then generously spoon the thick chili sauce over the top. Add finely chopped white onions, a drizzle of yellow mustard, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Step 9: Serve the chili dogs immediately, with plain crinkle-cut potato chips on the side for a traditional finish to this classic dish.

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Pro Tips for the Best Spicy Chili Dogs with

Keep these in mind:

Adjust cayenne pepper for desired spice level.
Use your preferred type of smoked sausage.
Pair with your favorite toppings for an extra kick.
Consider adding jalapeños or spicy pickles for an added crunch.

Best Ways to Serve Spicy Chili Dogs with

When it comes to serving Spicy Chili Dogs with, there are several delicious options. You can offer a variety of toppings to satisfy different palates, including shredded cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños. Additionally, consider pairing them with classic sides like coloslaw or potato salad for a perfect summer meal. For a fun twist, try making spicy chili cheese dogs by adding even more cheese on top!

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How to Store and Reheat Spicy Chili Dogs with

To keep your Spicy Chili Dogs with fresh, store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the chili gently on the stovetop or in a microwave. Toast fresh buns just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Chili Dogs with

What’s the secret to perfect Spicy Chili Dogs with?

The secret lies in the chili sauce! Using a blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and simmering for a few hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature taste. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings like shredded cheese and onions to enhance your dining experience.

Can I make Spicy Chili Dogs with ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chili in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving, and grill the sausages fresh for the best flavor. This is a great way to save time on busy days or when hosting a gathering.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spicy Chili Dogs with?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t rush the simmering process; this is key for flavor development. Also, adjust the spice levels to your liking, and don’t hesitate to explore different toppings for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Variations of Spicy Chili Dogs with You Can Try

There are plenty of variations to explore! For instance, you can make chili-covered spicy dogs by topping the sausages with chili and a sprinkle of cheese. Another option is to create gourmet spicy chili hot dogs by using artisan sausages and unique toppings like avocado or chipotle sauce. Furthermore, experiment with different meats or even plant-based sausages to cater to various dietary preferences.