Ingredients

For the Onion Sauce (yields about 1.5 cups, enough for 8-10 hot dogs):

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, finely chopped (about 3 cups)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)

For the Hot Dogs:

  • 8 all-beef hot dogs (preferably Sabrett or Nathan’s)
  • 8 soft hot dog buns
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
  • Spicy brown mustard (such as Gulden’s or French’s)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Small saucepan (for boiling hot dogs, optional)
  • Grill or griddle pan (optional)
  • Tongs
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onion Sauce

  1. Sauté the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent but not browned.
  2. Add Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the water, ketchup, tomato paste, cornstarch, brown sugar, cinnamon, chili powder, and red pepper flakes until combined. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the onions and stir well.
  3. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low. Simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are very tender and the liquid has reduced to a thick, saucy consistency.
  4. Add Vinegar: Stir in the white vinegar and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens further. If the sauce becomes too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to adjust consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more vinegar if needed.
  5. Keep Warm: Set the sauce aside, keeping it warm until ready to serve. The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days; reheat gently before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Hot Dogs

  1. Boiling Method (Traditional “Dirty Water” Style): Bring a small saucepan of water to a simmer. Add the hot dogs and cook for 6-8 minutes until heated through. Optionally, add a splash of white vinegar to the water for extra flavor (a common street cart practice).
  2. Grilling Method (Alternative): Preheat a grill or griddle pan to medium-high heat. Brush the hot dogs with a little oil and grill for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly charred and golden brown.
  3. Keep Warm: Remove the hot dogs from heat and keep warm until ready to assemble.

Step 3: Assemble the Hot Dogs

  1. Warm the Buns: If desired, lightly toast or warm the hot dog buns on the grill or in a low oven (250°F/120°C) for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Assemble: Place a hot dog in each bun. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of sauerkraut along one side of the hot dog. Drizzle spicy brown mustard over the hot dog to taste. Top with 2-3 tablespoons of the warm onion sauce.
  3. Serve: Serve immediately while hot, with extra mustard and onion sauce on the side if desired.

Tips

  • Onion Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water during simmering. If too thin, continue simmering to reduce further.
  • Make-Ahead: The onion sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.
  • Authentic Touch: Use Sabrett or Nathan’s hot dogs for the most authentic NYC street cart experience. These brands are known for their natural casing and beefy flavor.
  • Customization: Adjust the chili powder or red pepper flakes for more or less heat. Some prefer a sweeter sauce, so you can increase the brown sugar slightly if desired.

Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 Hot Dog with Toppings)

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Total Fat: ~20g
  • Saturated Fat: ~7g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Protein: ~12g
  • Sodium: ~900mg
    Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on brands and portion sizes.

Enjoy the taste of New York City with this classic street cart hot dog, perfect for a quick meal or a nostalgic bite of the Big Apple!