Classic New York Style Hot Dog Onion Relish
Bring a taste of the Big Apple to your backyard barbecue with this Classic New York Style Hot Dog Onion Relish. This rich and savory sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, transforming ordinary hot dogs into a gourmet experience. Simple to prepare, this relish features sautéed onions and garlic simmered with tomato sauce, vinegar, and a subtle mix of spices. It captures the essence of a classic street food favorite, adding layers of flavor that complement your favorite grilled meats. Ideal for summer cookouts or any time you crave a slice of NYC!
N/A
Servings
130
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
canola oil
1 tablespoon (none)
onions
4 cups (thinly sliced)
fresh garlic
1 tablespoon (minced)
flour
1 tablespoon (none)
red tomato sauce
8 ounces (smooth, not chunky)
water
8 ounces (none)
corn syrup
2 tablespoons (none)
vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
bay leaves
2 (whole)
dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
ground cloves
1 dash (none)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender and translucent but not browned.
2
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic mixture, stirring well to combine. Continue to cook for an additional minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3
Gradually pour in the smooth red tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine everything evenly.
4
Add the corn syrup, vinegar, bay leaves, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, and ground cloves. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for about 50 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little extra water to reach your desired consistency.
6
Once the sauce is ready, remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7
Serve this delicious onion relish generously over hot dogs, finishing with a drizzle of mustard for that authentic New York experience.
Nutrition Information
3g
Fat
22g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
5.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic New York Style Hot Dog Onion Relish?
It is a rich, savory, and tangy sauce made with sautéed onions, tomato sauce, and spices, designed to mimic the famous red onion sauce found at NYC street carts.
How many onions are required for this recipe?
You will need 4 cups of thinly sliced onions.
What type of tomato sauce should I use?
Use 8 ounces of smooth red tomato sauce. It should not be chunky or contain large pieces of vegetables.
How long does it take to sauté the onions?
The onions and garlic should be sautéed over medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes until tender and translucent.
Can I substitute canola oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use other neutral oils like vegetable oil or even olive oil, though canola is recommended for its neutral profile.
What is the purpose of adding flour to the relish?
Flour acts as a thickening agent, helping the sauce reach the right consistency to stay on top of a hot dog.
Is this New York style relish spicy?
It has a very subtle kick from the 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, but it is generally considered mild and savory.
How long should the relish simmer?
The sauce needs to simmer on low heat, covered, for approximately 50 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
What should I do if the relish becomes too thick during simmering?
Simply add a little extra water until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I substitute corn syrup in this recipe?
While corn syrup provides a specific texture and sweetness, you could try honey or maple syrup as alternatives, though the flavor profile may shift slightly.
Do I need to remove the bay leaves before serving?
Yes, always remove and discard the bay leaves once the simmering process is complete.
What type of vinegar is best for this relish?
Standard white vinegar or apple cider vinegar works well to provide the necessary tanginess.
Can I use red onions instead of white or yellow onions?
Yes, you can use red onions, though yellow or white onions are traditional for the authentic street-style flavor.
How should this relish be served?
Serve it generously over hot dogs, preferably finished with a drizzle of yellow mustard for an authentic New York experience.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains 1 tablespoon of flour. To make it gluten-free, you would need to use a gluten-free flour substitute or cornstarch.
How many calories are in a serving of this relish?
There are approximately 130 calories per serving.
Can I make this onion relish in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead allows the spices and flavors to fully develop.
How do I store leftover hot dog relish?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can this relish be frozen?
Yes, it freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
Why are ground cloves used in this recipe?
Ground cloves add a warm, complex depth of flavor that is characteristic of traditional New York street cart sauces.
Can I use fresh mustard instead of dry mustard?
Dry mustard is preferred for its concentrated flavor, but you can use a small amount of prepared yellow mustard if needed.
What is a good substitute for cayenne pepper if I want less heat?
You can use paprika for a similar color and mild flavor without the spicy heat.
Is this relish vegan-friendly?
Yes, all ingredients listed, including canola oil and corn syrup, are plant-based.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 ingredients total.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of minced fresh garlic.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of corn syrup to suit your personal preference.
Can I use tomato paste instead of tomato sauce?
You can, but you will need to dilute it with water to reach a sauce-like consistency first.
Can I double this recipe for a large party?
Yes, this recipe scales very well. Simply double all ingredients and use a larger skillet.
What else can I use this onion relish on besides hot dogs?
It goes great on hamburgers, grilled sausages, or even as a topping for grilled chicken breast.
What makes this New York Style?
The combination of slow-cooked onions, tomato base, and the specific spice blend of cinnamon-like cloves and mustard is the signature profile of NYC street vendors.