Ingredients

For the Pickled Slaw:

  • 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Dogs:

  • 4 high-quality hot dogs or bratwurst
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

Make the Pickled Slaw (prepare 2-4 hours ahead):

  1. In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrot.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine both vinegars, sugar, salt, celery seed, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve completely.
  3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cabbage mixture. Toss well to coat evenly.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours. The slaw will become more pickled and flavorful the longer it sits.

Prepare the Hot Dogs:

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat, or heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Grill or pan-fry the hot dogs for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through and nicely browned.
  3. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the hot dogs generously with BBQ sauce.
  4. Lightly butter the hot dog buns and toast them on the grill or in a dry skillet until golden.

Assembly:

  1. Place each hot dog in a toasted bun.
  2. Top generously with the pickled slaw (drain excess liquid first).
  3. Add sliced red onion if desired.
  4. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce to taste.
  5. Serve immediately while the dogs are hot and the slaw is cool and crunchy.

Tips:

  • The pickled slaw can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator
  • Try different BBQ sauce varieties like smoky, spicy, or sweet to change the flavor profile
  • For extra crunch, add some diced bell peppers to the slaw
  • These pair wonderfully with crispy fries or potato salad

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2+ hours for pickling)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4Retry

Claude can make mistakes.
Please double-check responses.