Ingredients

For the Dogs:

  • 4 high-quality hot dogs or bratwurst
  • 4 hot dog buns, preferably brioche or potato buns
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Spicy Kimchi Topping:

  • 1 cup kimchi, drained and roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons kimchi juice (reserved from jar)
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 green onion, finely sliced

For the Pickle Mix:

  • ½ cup dill pickle spears, diced
  • 2 tablespoons pickle juice
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon sugar

Additional Toppings:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
  • ¼ cup crispy fried onions
  • Fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Spicy Kimchi:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped kimchi, kimchi juice, gochujang, and sesame oil.
  2. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  3. Add sliced green onions and stir gently.

Prepare the Pickle Mix:

  1. In a small bowl, combine diced pickles, pickle juice, rice vinegar, and sugar.
  2. Stir until sugar dissolves and set aside.

Make Spicy Mayo:

  1. Mix mayonnaise and sriracha in a small bowl until well combined.
  2. Adjust spice level to taste.

Cook the Hot Dogs:

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add hot dogs and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned and heated through.
  3. Alternatively, grill over medium heat for the same time.

Warm the Buns:

  1. Lightly toast the buns in a toaster or on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden.

Assembly

  1. Place each hot dog in a toasted bun.
  2. Drizzle with spicy mayo along the length of the dog.
  3. Top generously with the spicy kimchi mixture on one side.
  4. Add the pickle mix on the other side.
  5. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and crispy fried onions.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
  7. Serve immediately while hot.

Chef’s Tips

  • Kimchi Selection: Use well-fermented kimchi for the best flavor. The tangier and more developed, the better.
  • Drain Well: Make sure to drain the kimchi properly to prevent soggy buns, but save that flavorful juice!
  • Pickle Variety: Try different pickle types like bread and butter pickles or spicy pickles for variation.
  • Bun Choice: A sturdy bun is essential as these dogs are loaded with toppings.
  • Make Ahead: The kimchi and pickle mixtures can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance.

Variations

  • Extra Heat: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of ghost pepper sauce
  • Protein Switch: Try with Korean-style sausage or even grilled chicken sausage
  • Veggie Version: Use plant-based hot dogs and add extra vegetables like shredded carrots
  • Fusion Twist: Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or crispy seaweed

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Sweet potato fries
  • Korean-style coleslaw
  • Cold beer or Korean rice wine (makgeolli)
  • Pickled radish on the side

Enjoy this perfect fusion of Korean flavors with classic American comfort food!