​Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

​Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a cherished regional condiment that elevates the classic hot dog experience. This flavorful sauce, rich in spices and savory goodness, transforms a simple hot dog into a culinary delight reminiscent of Appalachian gatherings and local diners.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Captures the traditional taste of Southern West Virginia, bringing a regional specialty to your kitchen.​

• Versatile Use: While perfect for hot dogs, this chili sauce also complements burgers, fries, and nachos.​

• Simple Preparation: Utilizes common pantry ingredients for an easy-to-make sauce that doesn’t compromise on taste.​

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef​

• 1 teaspoon chili powder​

• 1 teaspoon paprika​

• 1 teaspoon cumin​

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt​

• 1 teaspoon black pepper​

• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion​

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder​

• 2 cups water​grannysinthekitchen.com+5thekitchenwife.net+5Allrecipes+5

• 1 cup ketchup​Allrecipes

• 1/4 cup brown sugar​thekitchenwife.net

• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce​thekitchenwife.net

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large saucepan, combine the ground beef and water. Use a spatula or potato masher to break up the meat into fine pieces.​

2. Add Spices: Incorporate chili powder, paprika, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, dried minced onion, and garlic powder into the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices.​

3. Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for approximately 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.​

4. Add Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until smooth, then add this blend to the simmering meat mixture.​thekitchenwife.net

5. Final Simmer: Continue to simmer the sauce, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.​

6. Serve: Once thickened, remove from heat. Generously spoon the chili sauce over hot dogs nestled in steamed buns. Traditional toppings include mustard, diced onions, and coleslaw for an authentic experience.​thekitchenwife.net

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, sufficient for topping about 12 hot dogs.​Allrecipes

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes​Allrecipes

• Cooking Time: 2 hours​

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce heat to the sauce.​

• Tomato Base: For a richer tomato flavor, include 8 ounces of tomato sauce or a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste.​

• Onion Addition: Sauté fresh minced onions with the ground beef for enhanced texture and flavor.​

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Allow the chili sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.​

• Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled sauce in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to three months.​

• Reheating: Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.​

FAQs

What distinguishes West Virginia hot dog chili from other regional varieties?

West Virginia hot dog chili is typically a finely textured, mildly spiced meat sauce without beans, focusing on a balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors.​grannysinthekitchen.com+1Allrecipes+1

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be a leaner alternative. Ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and seasoned well to maintain flavor.​

Is it necessary to simmer the sauce for the full 2 hours?

Simmering for an extended period allows the flavors to develop deeply. While you can reduce the time, the richness of the sauce may be affected.​

Can I make this sauce in advance?

Absolutely. In fact, allowing the sauce to sit overnight in the refrigerator can enhance its flavor as the spices meld together.​

How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

Modify the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences. Start with less, and add more if desired after tasting.​

What type of ketchup works best for this recipe?

A standard tomato ketchup is ideal. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, opt for a ketchup with reduced sugar content.​

Can this chili sauce be used for dishes other than hot dogs?

Yes, it’s versatile and can top burgers, fries, baked potatoes, or be used as a dip with tortilla chips.​

How do I achieve a finer texture in the chili sauce?

Breaking up the ground beef thoroughly while cooking and ensuring it’s fully submerged in water helps achieve a finer, traditional texture.​thekitchenwife.net+1Julias Simply Southern+1

Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

You can substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives to create a vegetarian version of the sauce.​

What sides pair well with West Virginia hot dogs?

Classic sides include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, or crispy french fries to complement the flavors of the chili-topped hot dog.​

Conclusion

Crafting your own Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce brings a taste of Appalachian tradition to your table. This hearty, flavorful sauce not only enhances hot dogs but also showcases the rich culinary

​Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
• Category: Condiments, Sauces
• Method: Stovetop
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a rich, flavorful topping perfect for classic Appalachian-style hot dogs. Made with ground beef and a savory blend of spices, this chili sauce brings an authentic taste of the region to your backyard cookouts.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

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Instructions

• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into fine crumbles as it cooks.
• Once the beef is browned, drain any excess grease.
• Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, dried minced onion, and garlic powder. Stir well to coat the beef evenly with the seasonings.
• Add ½ to 1 cup of water (or beef broth) to achieve a saucy consistency. Stir and simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Serve hot over freshly grilled or steamed hot dogs with mustard, onions, and coleslaw for an authentic Southern West Virginia-style experience.

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Notes

• For an extra-rich flavor, substitute beef broth for water.
• Let the chili simmer longer for a deeper, more concentrated taste.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• This sauce freezes well—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.