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North Carolina Hot Dog Chili Recipe
John

North Carolina Hot Dog Chili Recipe

This North Carolina Hot Dog Chili recipe features ground beef simmered with ketchup, mustard, chili powder, onion, and a touch of sweetness. It's finely textured, flavorful, and perfect for topping hot dogs. Classic Southern in style, it's easy to make, quick to cook, and delivers that iconic, nostalgic taste found in Carolina hot dog stands.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2 cups chili, enough for 6-8 hot dogs
Course: Main course / Condiment
Cuisine: American (North Carolina regional)
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sugar optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth
  • Hot dogs and buns for serving
  • Mustard chopped onions, and North Carolina-style red slaw (optional toppings)

Equipment

  • Skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking the beef apart with a spatula, until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2:
  1. Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
Step 3:
  1. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and water (or beef broth). Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 4:
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed add more vinegar for tang, sugar for sweetness, or chili powder for heat.
Step 5:
  1. Spoon the hot dog chili generously over cooked hot dogs in buns. Top with mustard, chopped onions, and a traditional North Carolina red slaw for an authentic finish.