Made this dozens of times and my family keeps begging for more!

The Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a classic condiment that has found its way into the hearts of Americana cuisine. It's a savory enhancement that pairs impeccably with the simple hot dog, turning a humble meal into an indulgent experience. Its origins can be traced back to the early 1900s when European immigrants fused their traditional spiced meat sauces with the American “fast food” scene, resulting in a deliciously rich topping perfect for the nationwide street-food staple. Whether you're hosting game day events, enjoying a family barbecue, or simply want to relish a little comfort, this homemade chili sauce is an essential recipe to master.

When serving up hot dogs smothered with this hearty chili sauce, keep balance in mind. A fresh, crisp coleslaw can provide a delightful contrast in texture and taste. For a more filling meal, serve alongside golden baked beans or a scoop of creamy mac and cheese. Don't forget classic accompaniments like diced onions, grated cheddar cheese, and a side of warm, soft cornbread to help sop up any delectable sauce that might escape!

Servings: Makes about 8 servings

Ingredients:

- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Directions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion together, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return the beef mixture to the heat.

4. Stir in the tomato sauce, water, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

5. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then reduce the heat, and allow it to cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

7. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Remove from heat and the chili sauce is ready to serve atop your favorite hot dogs.

Variations & Tips:

For those who prefer a heartier chili sauce, a half-cup of kidney or pinto beans can be added during step

4. If you encounter lovers of heat at your table, consider incorporating a finely diced jalapeño or a dash more cayenne to kick up the spice level.

On the flipside, if a milder sauce is your goal, you can reduce or omit the cayenne and chili powder to cater to more sensitive palates.

As a timesaver, the sauce can be made in advance and freezes wonderfully, so don't hesitate to double the batch and save half for the next event. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stove or in a slow cooker to maintain temperature throughout your gathering.

Experiment with different types of ground meat such as turkey or pork for a twist on the traditional beef-based sauce, understanding that this can alter the flavor and fat content, thereby also potentially changing the cooking time slightly.

Remembering the fundamentals of safety, ensure that all meat products are cooked to the appropriate internal temperature and that you store leftovers within two hours of serving at a safe cooling temperature. Enjoy crafting this comforting classic!