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If you’re craving that classic Southern West Virginia-style hot dog chili sauce—thin, savory, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor—this recipe is a must-try! This chili sauce is a staple on WV hot dogs (especially “slaw dogs”) and has a unique spiced-meat texture without beans or tomatoes. Here’s how to make it at home:
🌭 Southern WV Hot Dog Chili Sauce
*(Makes enough for 12+ hot dogs)*
📝 Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor, or finely ground chuck)
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1 cup beef broth (or water)
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1 small onion, finely minced (or grated)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for depth)
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1 tbsp yellow mustard
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp chili powder (or more to taste)
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp brown sugar (or white sugar, for slight sweetness)
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Beef:
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Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add onion and cook until soft (3-4 mins).
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Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add ground beef, breaking it into tiny crumbles (almost paste-like—this is key for WV-style chili!).
2️⃣ Simmer with Spices:
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Stir in tomato paste (if using), mustard, vinegar, Worcestershire, and all spices.
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Pour in beef broth and bring to a low simmer.
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Cook uncovered for 30-45 mins, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a loose, saucy consistency (add more broth/water if too thick).
3️⃣ Adjust & Serve:
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Taste and adjust salt, sugar, or spice as needed.
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For authentic WV dogs, spoon over a steamed bun with a grilled wiener, then top with mustard, onions, and creamy slaw!
🔥 Pro Tips:
✅ Texture is key—keep the beef very finely crumbled (some even use a potato masher).
✅ No tomatoes? Traditional WV chili is tomato-free, but a little paste adds depth without making it “saucy.”
✅ Make ahead—this tastes even better the next day! Stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen.
✅ For a smokier flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Why It’s Special:
✔ Thin but flavorful—clings perfectly to hot dogs.
✔ Balanced sweet-savory-spicy profile.
✔ Just like the diners & stands in WV!
Pair it with homemade coleslaw and yellow mustard for the full experience. Enjoy! 🚗💨 (P.S. Want a spicier or all-meat version? Let me know!)
