Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce Recipe

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Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce Recipe

Introduction: Southern West Virginia hot dog chili sauce is a beloved regional delicacy, known for its rich, savory flavor and its distinct, yet comforting taste. This chili sauce is the quintessential topping for a West Virginia-style hot dog, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Unlike many other chili sauces, this version is not chunky; instead, it’s a smooth, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that infuses the hot dog with layers of flavor. The perfect blend of spices and a long simmering process gives this chili sauce its signature taste.

The tradition of chili on hot dogs in Southern West Virginia dates back to the early 20th century, where it became a staple at local diners and roadside stands. While variations exist across the country, West Virginia chili sauce has a unique balance between heat, sweetness, and savory depth that makes it stand out.

Whether you’re in West Virginia or looking to bring a taste of it into your own home, this chili sauce is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 2-3 cups water
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Beef:
    • Begin by heating a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.
  2. Add Seasonings and Water:
    • Once the beef is browned, add the chili powder, paprika, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, dried minced onion, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir the mixture well to evenly coat the beef with the spices.
    • Pour in 2-3 cups of water, just enough to fully cover the beef. Stir to combine everything into a smooth mixture.
  3. Simmer Slowly:
    • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low to medium heat. Let it cook uncovered for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow simmering process allows the beef to become tender, and the flavors to meld into one rich, flavorful sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add more water during this simmering process.
  4. Add Ketchup, Brown Sugar, and Worcestershire Sauce:
    • After 1 to 2 hours, stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients bring a perfect balance of sweetness and tang to the chili sauce. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  5. Final Simmer:
    • Let the sauce continue simmering for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, you can always add more water to reach the right texture.
  6. Serve:
    • Spoon the hot dog chili sauce generously over freshly grilled hot dogs. For an authentic Southern WV-style hot dog, top the chili sauce with mustard, chopped onions, and a scoop of creamy coleslaw. The combination of hot dog, chili, and toppings creates the perfect bite!

History and Formation:

The history of Southern West Virginia hot dog chili sauce is deeply intertwined with the region’s culture and culinary heritage. While hot dogs were introduced in the U.S. in the early 20th century, it was the folks in West Virginia who put their own unique spin on the dish. This chili sauce, often referred to simply as “WV chili,” quickly became a staple at local diners, road-side stands, and festivals.

The recipe itself evolved over time, with locals experimenting with different ingredients and methods. The result is a sauce that balances spiciness with sweetness, with a smooth texture that perfectly complements the hot dog. Interestingly, the sauce is not just used on hot dogs—it’s often found slathered over fries, burgers, and even used as a dip for chips.

The “secret” to its success is in the long simmering process, allowing the flavors to develop slowly, creating a hearty, savory sauce that is uniquely West Virginian.

Lovers of the Chili Sauce:

This Southern West Virginia chili sauce has a passionate following. Locals who grew up eating it swear by its flavor and versatility. For many, it’s the highlight of any cookout, family gathering, or tailgate party. Over the years, numerous regional diners and small eateries have built their reputations around this very chili sauce, with each claiming to have perfected their own variation. Whether you’re from West Virginia or just passing through, a hot dog topped with this chili sauce is an experience not to be missed.

Fans of this chili sauce aren’t just limited to West Virginians. The unique balance of spices and sweetness has made it a favorite of chili enthusiasts across the country. From those who love the classic hot dog to those who seek out new regional foods, Southern WV hot dog chili sauce has earned its place in the hearts of food lovers.

Conclusion:

Southern West Virginia hot dog chili sauce is more than just a topping—it’s a regional treasure that carries with it decades of tradition. Its deep, savory flavor, combined with the slow-simmering process, makes it the perfect complement to a hot dog. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer cookout or preparing it at home for the first time, this chili sauce will transport your tastebuds straight to the heart of West Virginia. It’s a recipe that brings together family, history, and flavors in the most delicious way possible.

Now that you have the recipe, why not give it a try and experience the warmth and comfort of this Southern West Virginia classic?

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