Bronx-Queens Savory Onion Sauce for Hot Dogs
Originating in the bustling neighborhoods of New York, this Onion Sauce recipe pays homage to my father, a hardworking man who balanced a career in data control and his weekends managing a hot dog cart. Combining a few simple yet essential ingredients, this sauce captures the essence of a street-style hot dog experience that locals cherish. It's savory, slightly sweet, and brings the perfect texture to your favorite hot dogs, especially when topped with sauerkraut, mustard, and, of course, Nathan's famous frankfurters. A true taste of New York, this recipe is not just a dish but a cherished family tradition that elevates any casual meal into an authentic culinary experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vegetable oil
2 teaspoons (None)
Onions
2 medium (Sliced very thinly)
Ketchup
1/4 cup (None)
Water
1 cup (None)
Salt
1/8 teaspoon (None)
Cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon (None)
Instructions
1
In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2
Add the sliced onions to the pan and sauté them gently, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, making sure not to let them brown.
3
Once the onions are cooked down, quickly stir in the ketchup and water, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
4
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and the liquid reduces by about half. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5
After simmering, season with a pinch of cinnamon and a pinch of salt, adjusting to taste. Remember, the goal is to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
6
For serving, boil the sauerkraut in a separate pot with a bit of added water until softened, then serve alongside the hot dog topped with the Onion Sauce for an authentic New York experience.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bronx-Queens Savory Onion Sauce?
It is a savory, slightly sweet condiment originating from New York street-style hot dog culture, inspired by family traditions.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This recipe pays homage to the author's father, who managed a hot dog cart in the bustling neighborhoods of the Bronx and Queens.
How many ingredients are needed for this sauce?
The recipe requires 6 essential ingredients: vegetable oil, onions, ketchup, water, salt, and cinnamon.
How should the onions be prepared?
You should use 2 medium onions and slice them very thinly for the proper texture.
What type of oil is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil.
How do I start cooking the sauce?
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Should the onions be browned during sautéing?
No, the onions should be sautéed gently until they are soft and translucent, making sure not to let them brown.
When do I add the ketchup and water?
Stir in the ketchup and water quickly once the onions have cooked down and become translucent.
How much ketchup is required?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of ketchup.
How much water is added to the mixture?
One cup of water is added to the onions and ketchup.
How long should the onion sauce simmer?
The sauce should simmer for 20-25 minutes.
What is the target consistency for the sauce?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon after the liquid reduces by about half.
What secret spice gives this sauce its unique flavor?
A pinch of cinnamon is added at the end to enhance the savory and sweet flavors.
When should I add the salt and cinnamon?
Add the salt and cinnamon after the sauce has finished simmering and thickened.
How much cinnamon is used?
The recipe specifies 1/8 teaspoon of cinnamon.
How much salt should I add?
Start with 1/8 teaspoon of salt and adjust to your personal taste.
What kind of hot dogs pair best with this sauce?
The recipe recommends Nathan's famous frankfurters for an authentic New York experience.
What other toppings are suggested?
It is best served with sauerkraut and mustard alongside the onion sauce.
How do I prepare the sauerkraut?
Boil the sauerkraut in a separate pot with a bit of water until it has softened.
Is this a traditional New York street food recipe?
Yes, it captures the essence of the street-style hot dog experience that locals in New York cherish.
What is the flavor profile of this sauce?
The sauce is savory and slightly sweet with a rich onion texture.
How often should I stir the sauce while it simmers?
Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure it doesn't stick and the ingredients combine well.
Can I use this sauce for other meals?
While designed for hot dogs, its savory onion profile can elevate various casual meals.
What heat level is used for simmering?
Reduce the heat to a low simmer after the initial boiling of ingredients.
Why is the water necessary?
The water provides the base for the sauce to reduce and thicken while the onions continue to soften.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it uses simple ingredients and a straightforward simmering process.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
Continue simmering for a few extra minutes until the liquid reduces to your desired thickness.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, like many onion-based sauces, the flavors often deepen if made in advance and reheated.
What was the inspiration behind the creator's father's cart?
He was a hardworking data control professional who managed the hot dog cart on weekends as a side business.
What makes this sauce authentic?
The combination of specific techniques like not browning the onions and the addition of cinnamon reflects true New York cart style.