Aunt Nan'S Drunkin Dogs
A crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring cocktail wieners simmered in a sweet, tangy bourbon-ketchup sauce, perfect for parties and casual gatherings with bold flavors and easy prep.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix brown sugar, ketchup, and bourbon in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Parboil wieners for 2 minutes, then add them to the sauce and simmer.
- Serve in a chafing dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a higher quality bourbon. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with apple cider vinegar or a mix of soy sauce and ginger for a different twist. Ensure to stir the sauce frequently to prevent sticking, and adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.
Serving Suggestions
These Drunkin Dogs are perfect for parties and game days. Serve them warm in a chafing dish to keep them heated for guests to help themselves. Pair with soft rolls or toothpicks for easy serving, and consider offering a side of crunchy coleslaw or potato chips to balance the sweetness of the dish. They also pair well with the refreshing flavors of Lo-Cal Coffee Jello.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, but be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the wieners.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Nan'S Drunkin Dogs contains roughly 120 calories, with 0g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of sausages instead of cocktail wieners?
Absolutely! While cocktail wieners are traditional, you can use sliced kielbasa or even vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary since larger pieces may require longer to heat through.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and parboil the wieners a day in advance. Store the sauce and wieners separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, combine them in a saucepan and simmer until heated. This saves time on the day of your event.
What is the best way to adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
To adjust the sweetness, you can add more brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce. Alternatively, if it's too sweet, balance it out with a splash of vinegar or a bit more ketchup to tone down the sweetness. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).