Ground beef: 1 pound (450g, 80/20 blend for optimal flavor)
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic cloves: 3-4, minced
Tomato sauce: 1 can (15 ounces or 425g)
Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
Beef broth: 1 cup (240ml)
Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
Yellow mustard: 1 tablespoon
Chili powder: 1 tablespoon
Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add Tomato Products: Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste until well combined.
Pour in Broth: Add the beef broth, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
Season the Sauce: Add the Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce Heat: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich, deep flavor.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Step 5: Serve
Top Hot Dogs: Spoon the warm Coney sauce over grilled or steamed hot dogs placed in buns.
Add Toppings: Finish with diced onions, shredded cheddar cheese, or a drizzle of mustard, if desired.
Notes
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will give your Coney sauce the best flavor.
Cook Low and Slow: Simmering the sauce slowly allows the flavors to meld and develop.
Adjust Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier sauce.
Double the Batch: Coney sauce freezes well, so make extra for future meals.