As a chef at Food And Meal, I’m always seeking out fun new flavor combinations to share with our readers. During a recent trip to Korea, I fell in love with the punchy, fermented tang of kimchi. The spicy cabbage dish is served alongside almost every Korean meal, adding a delightful kick.
When I returned home, I started brainstorming ways to incorporate those addictive kimchi flavors into American classics. Hot dogs seemed like the perfect vehicle – their salty meatiness able to stand up to kimchi’s bold personality. After countless trials, I landed on a kimchi hot dog recipe that melds the best of both worlds.
Slathering the dogs with garlicky, ginger-spiked kimchi paste and topping with crispy fried kimchi brings that satisfying crunch. The sweetness of the bun balances out the heat. With every juicy bite, I’m transported back to the bustling Korean markets, my mouth watering for more. I can’t wait for you all to experience these crazy delicious kimchi dogs! Let me know what you think – I have a feeling they might just become your new go-to game day snack.
Kimchi Hot Dogs Recipe
KIMCHI HOT DOGS
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 3/4 cup Napa Cabbage Kimchi (here), drained and chopped
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 4 beef hot dogs or chicken sausages, lightly scored on the diagonal
- 4 hot dog buns
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to high.
- To make the gochujang mustard sauce, in a small bowl whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, and gochujang. Thin with a tiny bit of water if the sauce is too thick. It should be roughly the consistency of ketchup. Set aside.
- To make the kimchi relish, in another small bowl combine the kimchi with the honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Grill the hot dogs until nicely browned and crisp. Lightly grill the buns until golden. Put the hot dogs on the buns and top with the kimchi relish, and drizzle with the gochujang mustard sauce.
Video
Notes
- Kimchi Variety: Kimchi comes in various types and levels of spiciness. Experiment with different kimchi varieties to find the one that suits your taste best. Some kimchi varieties are more intense, while others are milder, so adjust according to your preference.
- Hot Dog Options: You can choose from a variety of hot dog options, including beef, pork, chicken, or vegetarian hot dogs. Feel free to pick your favorite or explore different types to cater to various dietary preferences.
- Buns Matter: The choice of buns can significantly impact your Kimchi Hot Dog experience. Opt for fresh and slightly toasted buns for the best texture and flavor. Brioche buns, pretzel buns, or classic hot dog buns all work well.
Nutrition
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Alternative Preparation Method: Oven-Baked Kimchi Hot Dogs
Prepare a mouthwatering dish with oven-baked Kimchi Hot Dogs by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). After placing hot dog buns on a baking sheet and making a slit in each, generously stuff them with chopped kimchi and nestle a hot dog on top. Customize the cheesiness by sprinkling shredded cheddar over the buns, then drizzle with melted butter for a golden finish.
Bake the Kimchi Hot Dogs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the buns are toasty, hot dogs are heated through, and the cheese is melted. Once out, garnish with sliced green onions and add a Sriracha kick for those who desire an extra punch. Serve these oven-baked delights hot, relishing the flavorful combination of cheese and kimchi-infused goodness.
Cooking Tips
I find that seeking out high-quality hot dogs like Boar’s Head and using very fresh, crunchy napa cabbage kimchi is key. Taking the time to caramelize the hot dogs in a skillet before topping amplifies the umami. And don’t be shy with the kimchi! I love mounding it on so every bite pops with that distinctive fermented zest. A schmear of spicy mayo ties it all together.
With these simple tricks, you can create the ultimate street food-inspired snack or fun Super Bowl appetizer to get any party started. I love seeing my friends’ delighted reactions when they sink their teeth into these craveworthy creations for the first time. I hope you’ll give kimchi dogs a try and let me know what you think!
Serving Suggestions
Start your culinary journey with the enticing Curry Yakisoba, where the Japanese flavors intermingle with the warmth of curry. For a touch of elegance, complement your hot dogs with the rich and vibrant Veal Gremolata, creating a symphony of flavors on your palate.
Balance the boldness of the Kimchi Hot Dogs with the classic and comforting Spinach Quiche, or savor the succulence of Steak Teriyaki for a savory delight. Explore the unique fusion of Yakimiso Ramen, a dish that marries the smokiness of yakitori with the umami richness of miso, providing a harmonious contrast to the hot dogs.
Dive into the savory experience of Sui-Gyoza Soup or indulge in the soothing notes of Shio Koji Soup, offering a delightful respite from the bold flavors. For seafood enthusiasts, the Teriyaki Shrimp provides an elegant companion, while Scallion Kimchi adds a vibrant kick to your hot dog ensemble.
- Is kimchi on a hot dog good? Absolutely! The tangy and flavorful profile of kimchi complements the savory elements of a hot dog, creating a unique and delicious taste experience.
- Is it safe for dogs to eat kimchi? While small amounts of plain kimchi may not be harmful to dogs, it’s generally not recommended to feed them spicy or seasoned foods. Dogs have sensitive digestive systems, and the spices in kimchi could potentially cause discomfort. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian regarding your dog’s diet.
- What is a Kogi dog? A Kogi dog is a fusion creation inspired by the Kogi BBQ food truck, which gained popularity in Los Angeles. It typically consists of a hot dog topped with Korean barbecue beef, spicy kimchi, and a variety of other toppings, blending traditional Korean flavors with the classic American hot dog.
- What are Korean hot dogs called? Korean hot dogs are often referred to as “Korokke Hotteok” or “Korean Corn Dogs.” These are a popular street food in Korea, featuring hot dogs or sausages coated in a batter, deep-fried, and often rolled in various toppings like breadcrumbs or french fries.
- Can I Make Kimchi Hot Dogs Vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap out regular hot dogs for vegetarian or tofu-based options. The key is the flavorful kimchi and cheesy goodness.
- How Spicy Should the Kimchi Be? It’s entirely up to your spice preference. Choose a kimchi variety that suits your heat tolerance, from mild to fiery.
- Can I Prep Kimchi Hot Dogs in Advance? While they taste best fresh, you can prepare ingredients in advance and assemble just before serving to maintain bun integrity.
- What’s the Best Cheese for Kimchi Hot Dogs? Cheddar is a classic choice, but experiment with other melting cheeses like pepper jack or provolone for a twist.
- How Do I Store Leftover Kimchi Hot Dogs? Leftovers can be refrigerated for a day or two. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick, tasty meal.
Conclusion
I hope you’ll give this fun fusion of Korean and American flavors a try. Kimchi hot dogs make for an quick, easy meal or appetizer that packs some heat. The tangy kimchi cuts through the richness of the hot dog perfectly.
As I continue my culinary journey at Food And Meal, I plan on developing more recipes that merge cuisines in unexpected ways. Let me know in the comments if you have any suggestions for creative mashups I should try next! And if you make these kimchi dogs, I’d love to see your spin on them.
Hi! I'm Nazia of ‘Nazia Cooks’, a self-taught baker and cook residing in Chennai. Rooted in the rich South Indian culinary landscape, my palate has expanded to embrace global flavors. I revel in crafting fusion dishes, melding traditions to birth unique tastes.