Forget the usual chilly weather blues! This Chicago Style Hot Dog Soup recipe is the perfect comfort food to warm you from the inside out. Imagine all the vibrant flavors of a classic Chicago-style hot dog, but in a surprisingly delicious and surprisingly easy-to-make soup. It’s a fun twist on a familiar favorite, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a unique party appetizer. Get ready to experience the Windy City in every spoonful!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 all-beef hot dogs, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 8 hot dog buns, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional, for serving)
- Chopped celery and onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the base: Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, water, ketchup, mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, celery seed, sugar, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Add the hot dogs: Gently stir in the sliced hot dogs. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the hot dogs are heated through.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the Chicago Style Hot Dog Soup into bowls. If desired, top with chopped celery and onions, and serve with a side of the cubed hot dog buns for dipping. This hearty and flavorful soup is a delicious and satisfying meal on its own!
Tips for the Best Chicago Style Hot Dog Soup:
- For a deeper flavor: Use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought. Roasting the onions before adding them to the pot will also enhance the overall taste.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and the hot dogs with vegetarian hot dogs or even hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicago: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicago: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Cheesy Chicago: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Chicago Style Hot Dog Soup is a delicious and surprisingly easy recipe that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Chicago-style hot dog in a warm and comforting bowl of soup. Enjoy the taste of the Windy City!