Coney Island Hot Dog

Instructions

1. Prepare the meat sauce
   In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into very small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
2. Add aromatics
   Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Season the sauce
   Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.
4. Simmer the sauce
   Add the beef broth, tomato paste, and yellow mustard. Stir well to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook the hot dogs
   While the sauce simmers, cook the hot dogs according to your preferred method - grill, boil, or pan-fry until heated through and slightly browned on the outside.
6. Steam the buns
   Lightly steam or warm the hot dog buns. This can be done by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 15-20 seconds, or by placing them in a steamer basket over simmering water for 2 minutes.
7. Assemble the Coney Dogs
   Place each hot dog in a bun. Top generously with the meat sauce, followed by a line of yellow mustard and a sprinkle of finely diced raw onions.