Hot Dogs In Hot Pants
Crispy, savory hot dogs coated in a crunchy cornmeal batter with shoestring potatoes, perfect as a fun snack or party appetizer for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat hot dogs in water and dry thoroughly before dipping in batter.
- Blend all ingredients except potatoes for about 20 seconds, then beat vigorously for about 1 minute.
- Stir in crumbled shoestring potatoes.
- Heat fat or oil in deep fryer to 375°F.
- Insert wooden skewers into one end of each hot dog or hold with tongs.
- Dip hot dogs into cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Carefully place the coated hot dogs into hot oil and cook for about 1 minute or until batter is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier coating, ensure the hot dogs are completely dry before dipping. You can substitute the shortening with vegetable oil for a different flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne to the batter. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Hot Dogs In Hot Pants with a side of your favorite dipping sauces, such as mustard or ketchup. They pair wonderfully with a fresh coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving alongside Chili-Cheese Franks for a flavorful comparison.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30-45 seconds, but they may lose some texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Dogs In Hot Pants contains roughly 898 calories, with 15g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 840mg per serving (37% 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 other types of sausages instead of hot dogs?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage or even vegetarian options. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of sausage you choose. Remember that cooking times may vary, so monitor them closely while frying.
What can I do with leftover batter?
If you have leftover batter, you can use it to coat vegetables like zucchini or onion rings for a tasty snack. Just ensure the batter is still fresh and use it within a day. Alternatively, you can store it in the fridge for a short time, but it's best used immediately.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
For a healthier version, consider baking the hot dogs instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the coated hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. You can also use turkey or chicken hot dogs for a leaner option.
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).