West Virginia Style Hot Dog
Have you ever tried a West Virginia style hot dog? If not, you’re in for a treat! These delicious hot dogs are unique to the state and are a must-try for any hot dog lover. In this article, we’ll explore what makes a West Virginia style hot dog so special and why it’s worth seeking out. So, let’s dig in!
What Sets West Virginia Style Hot Dogs Apart?
Unlike your typical hot dog, a West Virginia style hot dog is topped with a variety of delicious condiments that take it to a whole new level. You’ll find an array of toppings, including coleslaw, chili sauce, mustard, and onions. These toppings come together to create a flavor explosion in every bite.
Imagine biting into a juicy hot dog smothered in tangy coleslaw, topped with a sweet and spicy chili sauce, and finished off with a dollop of mustard and a sprinkle of onions. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Where Can You Find West Virginia Style Hot Dogs?
If you’re lucky enough to live in or visit West Virginia, you’ll find West Virginia style hot dogs at various local hot dog joints and restaurants. These eateries take pride in serving up authentic West Virginia style hot dogs that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
One popular spot to try is the iconic “Dog House” in Charleston, West Virginia. This long-standing establishment has been serving up mouthwatering hot dogs since 1950 and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
But don’t worry if you can’t make it to West Virginia. You can also recreate the West Virginia style hot dog experience in your own kitchen. Simply gather the necessary ingredients and follow the steps to assemble your own mouthwatering creation.
Tips for Making Your Own West Virginia Style Hot Dogs
Making your own West Virginia style hot dogs is easier than you might think. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Choose the Right Hot Dog:
Opt for high-quality hot dogs that are juicy and flavorful. The quality of the hot dog will greatly impact the overall taste of your West Virginia style creation.
2. Perfect the Toppings:
Take the time to prepare the toppings just right. The coleslaw should be creamy and tangy, the chili sauce should have the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, and the onions should be finely diced for easy distribution.
3. Toast the Bun:
For an extra touch of deliciousness, toast the bun before assembling your hot dog. This will add a slight crunch and enhance the overall flavor.
In Conclusion
The West Virginia style hot dog is a true gem in the world of hot dogs. Its unique combination of toppings elevates it to a whole new level of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying one at a local hot dog joint in West Virginia or making your own at home, you’re in for a treat. So, go ahead and take a bite out of this delicious West Virginia delicacy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use any type of hot dog for a West Virginia style hot dog?
Yes, you can use any type of hot dog you prefer. However, it’s recommended to choose high-quality hot dogs for the best taste.
2. Is coleslaw a must-have topping for a West Virginia style hot dog?
Yes, coleslaw is a key component of a West Virginia style hot dog. It adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the other toppings perfectly.
3. Can I make a vegetarian version of a West Virginia style hot dog?
Absolutely! You can substitute the hot dog with a vegetarian or vegan alternative and still enjoy the delicious toppings that make a West Virginia style hot dog unique.
4. Can I freeze leftover chili sauce for future use?
Yes, you can freeze leftover chili sauce in an airtight container and thaw it when needed. This way, you’ll always have some on hand for your next West Virginia style hot dog craving.
5. Are West Virginia style hot dogs spicy?
The level of spiciness can vary depending on the chili sauce used. Some chili sauces have a mild heat, while others can be spicier. Adjust the amount of chili sauce to your personal preference.
6. Can I add additional toppings to a West Virginia style hot dog?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings to personalize your West Virginia style hot dog. Just make sure not to overpower the delicious flavors of the traditional toppings.
7. Can I make the chili sauce from scratch?
Yes, you can make the chili sauce from scratch if you prefer. There are many recipes available online that will guide you through the process.
8. Are West Virginia style hot dogs messy to eat?
They can be a bit messy due to the abundance of toppings, but that’s part of the charm! Embrace the messiness and enjoy every flavorful bite.
West Virginia Style Hot Dog
- 4 hot dogs
- 4 hot dog buns
- 1 cup homemade chili
- 1 cup coleslaw from the store
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion (, grated)
- One 16-ounce can tomato sauce
- One 12-ounce can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- Cook the hot dogs by grilling, steaming, or boiling them.
- Meanwhile, heat the chili until it is hot throughout.
- Place each cooked hot dog in a bun.
- Top each hot dog with a generous amount of chili, coleslaw, and yellow mustard.
- Serve the hot dogs with the toppings.
- In a stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the beef (do not brown first), onions, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and 2 cups of water.
- Mix the ingredients until they are well combined.
- Add the bay leaves to the mixture.
- Cover the pot and simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for approximately 2 hours.
- Stir in the vinegar and simmer the mixture for an additional 30 minutes.
