Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like biting into a classic New York-style hot dog, dripping with tangy mustard, flavorful sauerkraut, and perfectly seasoned onions. Not only is this an iconic street food, but it’s also a surprisingly balanced meal when prepared at home, with protein-packed sausage and fresh toppings. One serving of this classic hot dog contains about 300-350 calories, depending on the toppings you choose. This recipe lets you enjoy the authentic taste of New York without stepping foot outside your kitchen.
Recipe Details
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Hot Dogs
- 4 high-quality beef hot dog sausages
- 4 soft, fresh hot dog buns
- Water or beer for boiling
For the Classic New York-Style Toppings
- 1 cup sauerkraut
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Extras
- Pickle spears
- Jalapeños
- Grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the Hot Dogs
- Heat a large saucepan of water (or beer for added flavor) until it comes to a gentle boil.
- Add the hot dog sausages and simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- If you prefer grilled hot dogs, lightly oil a grill pan and cook the sausages over medium heat, turning occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Onion Topping
- Heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the smoked paprika, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Heat the Sauerkraut
- In a small pot, warm the sauerkraut on low heat until it’s steaming.
4. Assemble Your Hot Dogs
- Lightly toast the buns if desired, either in a pan or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes.
- Place a hot dog sausage in each bun.
- Add the toppings in layers: start with sauerkraut, followed by onions, then drizzle with mustard and ketchup.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your hot dogs warm, accompanied by your favorite sides like chips or a fresh salad.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect New York-Style Hot Dog
- For a smoky flavor, try grilling your sausages over a charcoal grill.
- Use fresh, soft buns to complement the juicy hot dog sausage.
- Adjust the toppings to your liking—add spicy jalapeños for a kick or grated cheddar for extra indulgence.
- “Feel free to add or remove ingredients to suit your taste preferences.”
