Toledo-Style Greek Hot Dog Topping
This Toledo-Style Greek Hot Dog Topping is a savory and aromatic sauce that's a far cry from the ordinary tomato-based condiments. Drawing inspiration from beloved local hot dog joints like Nettie's and Rudy's, this recipe has been cherished and passed down through generations, originally shared by my Uncle Bob. This sauce is a stellar addition to your chili dog, elevating your dish with an irresistible depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. It freezes exceptionally well, allowing for easy storage in small containers so you always have a quick and delicious topping on hand. Moreover, it's a fantastic gift for chili dog enthusiasts who love surprising their friends with something special and unique. Pro tip: experiment with adding ground cloves to enhance the flavor profile, as I found it surprisingly delightful! Give it a try and taste the difference.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Beef
1 lb (crumbled)
Water
2 cups (none)
Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
Dried Onion Flakes
2 teaspoons (dried)
Cayenne Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
Oregano
1 teaspoon (dried)
Paprika
1 tablespoon (ground)
Chili Powder
2 teaspoons (ground)
Cumin
2 teaspoons (ground)
Ground Cloves
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, combine the ground beef and water. Crumble the beef as you add it to ensure even cooking.
2
Sprinkle in all the spices: black pepper, dried onion flakes, cayenne pepper, oregano, paprika, chili powder, cumin, ground cloves, and salt. Stir the mixture until it forms a paste, ensuring the spices are well integrated with the meat.
3
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about one hour, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has thickened and reduced to your liking.
5
If using lean ground beef, consider adding a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil to enhance the flavor. Note that olive oil is not recommended due to its delicate nature.
6
Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious sauce generously poured over your favorite hot dogs!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Toledo-Style Greek Hot Dog Topping?
It is a savory and aromatic meat-based sauce inspired by famous Toledo hot dog joints like Nettie's and Rudy's, often served on chili dogs.
Is this a tomato-based sauce?
No, this recipe is a far cry from ordinary tomato-based condiments, focusing on a meat and spice blend instead.
Where did this specific recipe originate?
This recipe has been cherished and passed down through generations, originally shared by the creator's Uncle Bob.
Which local restaurants inspired this recipe?
The flavor profile is inspired by beloved Toledo hot dog establishments like Nettie's and Rudy's.
What is the primary meat used in the topping?
The recipe uses 1 lb of ground beef, which should be crumbled during the preparation process.
How much water is required for the recipe?
You will need 2 cups of water to combine with the ground beef in the saucepan.
What are the key spices used in this Greek hot dog topping?
The spices include black pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, paprika, chili powder, cumin, ground cloves, and salt.
How long should the sauce simmer?
The sauce should simmer uncovered for about one hour until the liquid has thickened and reduced to your preference.
Can this hot dog topping be frozen?
Yes, it freezes exceptionally well and can be stored in small containers for quick and easy use later.
What 'pro tip' is recommended for enhancing the flavor?
The recipe suggests experimenting with ground cloves to add a surprisingly delightful depth to the flavor profile.
Should I use olive oil if the meat is too lean?
No, olive oil is not recommended due to its delicate nature. Instead, use a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil if using lean beef.
Do I need to brown the beef before adding water?
No, the beef and water are combined together in the saucepan and the beef is crumbled as it is added to the water.
How much chili powder is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of ground chili powder.
What type of onion is used in this topping?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of dried onion flakes.
Is the sauce spicy?
It contains cayenne pepper, chili powder, and black pepper, which provide a savory and aromatic spice profile.
How do I ensure the spices are well integrated?
Stir the meat and spice mixture until it forms a paste before you begin the boiling and simmering process.
Does the sauce need to be covered while simmering?
No, it should be simmered uncovered to allow the liquid to reduce and thicken.
What is the recommended heat setting for the initial boil?
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients total, including the beef, water, and various spices.
What is the amount of cumin required?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of ground cumin.
Is this a good gift idea?
Yes, it is considered a fantastic and unique gift for chili dog enthusiasts.
How much paprika should be added?
One tablespoon of ground paprika is used in the mixture.
What is the preparation for the oregano?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
How much cayenne pepper is included?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper.
What should I do after the sauce finishes simmering?
Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving it over your favorite hot dogs.
Why is it called 'Greek' style?
In the Midwest, particularly Toledo and Cincinnati, 'Greek' hot dog sauce refers to a meat-based sauce flavored with spices like cinnamon or cloves, often created by Greek immigrants.
How much salt is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt.
What is the amount of ground cloves used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves.
How much black pepper is in the topping?
The recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Can I use this for things other than hot dogs?
While designed as a hot dog topping, its savory profile makes it a great meat sauce for various chili-based dishes.