West Virginia Hot Dog Sauce Recipe
West Virginia hot dog sauce is a flavorful, meaty topping typically served on hot dogs. It combines ground beef, onions, tomato paste, vinegar, and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. The sauce is simmered to create a rich, savory mixture that complements the hot dog and its toppings perfectly.
Equipment
- Medium-sized saucepan or skillet
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and chopping board
- Ladle or spoon for serving
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef preferably 80% lean
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste (for final seasoning)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized saucepan or skillet, add the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break the beef apart using a spoon and cook until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Pour in the water, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add the sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir and bring everything to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, and let the sauce thicken. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste.
- Once the sauce has thickened and reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Spoon the sauce generously over hot dogs and serve immediately.