Hot Dog Surprise
A savory, sweet and smoky hot dog dish glazed with bourbon and brown sugar, perfect for casual gatherings and those who enjoy bold, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut hot dogs into bite-size pieces.
- Put the hot dog pieces in a frying pan with grated onion, brown sugar, catsup, and bourbon.
- Simmer slowly for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook until the sauce reaches the consistency of thick catsup.
- If the liquid dries too much, add more bourbon.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked hot dogs or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you want a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar slightly. For a twist, you can substitute the bourbon with apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. This recipe can also be adapted for a crowd by doubling the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot dog surprise over rice or in a soft bun for a delightful meal. Pair it with coleslaw or potato salad for a complete picnic-style feast. It also makes a great appetizer at parties, especially when served with toothpicks. For a unique twist, try it alongside Orange Barbecue Cocktail Wieners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hot dog surprise in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Dog Surprise contains roughly 383 calories, with 11g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1105mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
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 turkey or veggie hot dogs in this recipe?
Yes, turkey or veggie hot dogs can be used as a substitute, making this dish a bit healthier while still retaining great flavor. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly, as the cooking time may vary slightly.
What if I don't have bourbon?
If bourbon isn't available, you can substitute it with apple juice or a splash of vinegar to maintain the sweet and tangy flavor profile. While the taste will be slightly different, it will still be delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture. You can also use spicy hot dogs or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers.
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).