Rainy Day Barbecue Franks
Juicy hot dogs smothered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and rainy days, appealing to all ages and flavor preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter or margarine.
- Add the minced onion and cook slowly until tender.
- Add the remaining ingredients except the franks, and cook slowly, uncovered, for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. If you don't have dry mustard, you can substitute with prepared mustard, using a tablespoon for every teaspoon of dry mustard. Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste. This sauce can also be used in recipes like Pecan Caramel Thumbprints for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecue franks in toasted buns topped with coleslaw for added crunch. They pair excellently with sides like corn on the cob or baked beans. For a complete meal, consider serving with a refreshing salad or chips. You can also serve them alongside snacks like Caramel Cornflake Ring for a fun gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the franks and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rainy Day Barbecue Franks contains roughly 237 calories, with 2g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2700mg per serving (117% 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 vegetarian franks in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use turkey or vegetarian franks for a lighter or meat-free option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since these alternatives may cook faster than traditional franks.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat to the sauce, consider incorporating hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or even diced jalapeños. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired spice level. This will give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently before adding the franks. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or when hosting gatherings.
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).