Classic Coney Sauce Recipe

Introduction

The word "Coney" is used to describe many different types of hot dogs with or without sauce depending on the region where the term is used. However, a "Coney Sauce" is a tomato based spicy meat sauce, which is usually used as a topping for hot dogs. The Coney sauce originated in Michigan area and is widely popular in the mid-west. Quite often mustard, ketchup, chopped onions, cheese are added to the hot dog as well. The Coney sauce is usually placed on top of the hot dog. It is not uncommon for the sauce to be put into the bun first and the hot dog placed on top of the sauce. A Coney sauce is not exclusively used for hot dogs, quite often people top burgers, or spaghetti with a Coney sauce.

Ingredients

Makes 12-14 Servings

•     1 tablespoon of Cooking Oil
•   1/2 pound of Ground Beef
•     1 cup of Ketchup
• 1 1/2 cups of Water
•   1/4 cup of Dill Pickle Relish
•     2 tablespoons of Finely Minced Onions
•   1/2 teaspoon of Mustard
•   1/2 teaspoon of Salt
•   1/2 teaspoon of Pepper
•     1 tablespoon of Chili Powder
•     3 tablespoons of Root Beer

Cooking Procedure

1. Brown ground beef in 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a saucepan on a medium-high heat, until pink color disappears. Break up the ground beef while browning with a fork or spatula until fine.
2. Add in Water, Ketchup, Spices, and Root Beer and stir well to blend thoroughly.
3. Heat the sauce to a slow buddle.
4. Reduce heat cover with a lid and simmer for about one hour.

If the sauce becomes too thick it can be reduce with a little extra water.