Carolina Hot Dog
A classic Southern treat! This hot dog is loaded 'all the way' with hearty beef chili, creamy coleslaw, tangy mustard, and fresh diced onions. A messy, delicious masterpiece that's a staple at cookouts and ballparks across the Carolinas.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Coleslaw
- b.In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, 0.25 tsp of salt, and 0.25 tsp of black pepper until smooth.
- c.Add the finely shredded cabbage and toss until it's completely coated in the dressing.
- d.Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Chili
- b.Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- c.Add half of the diced white onion (about 0.5 cup) and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- d.Add the ground beef to the saucepan. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- e.Stir in the ketchup, water, chili powder, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, the remaining 0.5 tsp of salt, and the remaining 0.25 tsp of black pepper.
- f.Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently, uncovered, for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened. For a classic fine texture, you can pulse it a few times in a food processor or use an immersion blender briefly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook Hot Dogs and Warm Buns
- b.While the chili is simmering, cook the hot dogs using your preferred method (grilling, boiling, or pan-frying) until they are heated through and nicely browned if desired.
- c.To warm the buns, wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds, or place them in a steamer basket over simmering water for about 1 minute until soft and warm.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Hot Dogs
- b.Place a cooked hot dog into each warm bun.
- c.Spoon a generous layer of the hot dog chili over the entire length of the hot dog.
- d.Top the chili with a strip of the chilled coleslaw.
- e.Sprinkle the remaining finely diced white onion (about 0.5 cup) over the coleslaw.
- f.Finish with a classic zigzag of yellow mustard and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic Carolina chili, ensure it has a fine, almost paste-like consistency. Pulsing it in a food processor is the key.
- 2Authentic Carolina-style chili never contains beans. If you're short on time and using canned chili, make sure it's a 'no-bean' variety.
- 3Steaming the buns is a non-negotiable step for a true Carolina dog. It creates a soft, pillowy texture that holds the toppings perfectly.
- 4The coleslaw should be creamy and slightly sweet to provide a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, savory chili.
- 5For a slightly different flavor profile, try using 'red hots' or brightleaf-style hot dogs, which are a regional favorite in the Carolinas.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Version
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño to the chili along with the other spices for a spicy kick.
Cheesy DogCheesy Dog
After adding the chili, sprinkle a layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese before adding the coleslaw for a 'Carolina Cheesedog'.
Vegetarian VersionVegetarian Version
Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground alternative and use vegetarian hot dogs. Ensure the Worcestershire sauce is a vegan variety.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
The ground beef and all-beef hot dogs provide high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and overall body function.
Provides B Vitamins
Beef is a good source of B vitamins, particularly B12, which is crucial for nerve function and the formation of red blood cells, helping to prevent anemia and maintain energy levels.
Frequently asked questions
A true Carolina-style hot dog is defined by its toppings, served 'all the way'. This always includes a fine-textured, no-bean beef chili, creamy coleslaw, finely diced raw onions, and yellow mustard.