Original North Carolina Hot Dog

The original North Carolina hot dog, also known as the Carolina slaw dog, comes from the southern United States, specifically North Carolina, where hot dogs have been topped with a unique combination of spicy chili, creamy coleslaw, mustard, and onions for decades. The recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for barbecues or a quick dinner, and brings the taste of the South right into your kitchen.

This recipe is based on traditional sources to keep it as authentic as possible – without modern twists that alter its classic charm. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or want to relive nostalgic memories of a trip to the USA, let’s get started!

That’s why the North Carolina hot dog is a must-try

The Carolina Slaw Dog has its roots in the 1920s and is an integral part of North Carolina BBQ culture. Unlike the overloaded New York hot dogs or the spicy Chicago variants, this classic relies on a balanced mix: the warmth of the chili contrasts perfectly with the coolness of the coleslaw.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly and family-friendly. Give it a try and share your experiences in the comments – have you ever eaten it in the US?

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 – 6 hot dogs
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per hot dog: approx. 450 kcal

Ingredients for the Original North Carolina Hot Dog

Here are the ingredients, separated by component, for an authentic result. I recommend using fresh ingredients to preserve the traditional flavor.

For the hot dog chili (makes approx. 2 cups):

• 500 g lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (170 g) tomato paste
• 120 ml ketchup
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika (sweet)
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 120 ml water

For the coleslaw:

• 1/2 head white cabbage, finely chopped (approx. 400 g)
• 1 carrot, grated
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the hot dogs:

• 4-6 hot dog sausages (preferably all-beef hot dog sausages or red Bright Leaf-style, if available)
• 4-6 hot dog buns
• Yellow mustard
• 1 onion, finely chopped (for the topping)

Step-by-step instructions – How to prepare the Carolina Slaw Dog

Step 1: Prepare the chili

1. In a pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it is brown.
2. Add the chopped onion and fry for 5 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in tomato paste, ketchup, chili powder, paprika powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Add water and bring everything to a boil.
5. Then simmer over low heat for 20 – 25 minutes until the chili is thick.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tip: For more authenticity, let it steep overnight!

Step 2: Make the coleslaw

Mix the chopped cabbage and grated carrot in a bowl. Add the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper, and mix well.

Leave to stand in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. The slaw should be creamy but not too moist.

Step 3: Cook the hot dogs

Cook the sausages in boiling water for 5 – 7 minutes or grill them until they are hot.

Step 4: Toast the rolls

Lightly toast the rolls to make them crispy.

Step 5: Assemble

1. Take a roll and put the sausage inside.
2. First add yellow mustard, then chopped onions, a generous portion of chili, and finally the coleslaw on top.

The order is important – traditionally, the Slav comes last to emphasize the contrast!

4 tips for the perfect North Carolina hot dog

1. Variations: Stay close to the original recipe, but if you want to make it vegetarian, replace the sausage with a plant-based vegan sausage alternative and the ground beef with soy granules for the chili.
2. Storage: The chili will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; it is best to prepare the coleslaw fresh.
3. Pairings: Goes great with classic American side dishes such as baked beans or potato salad.
4. Avoid common mistakes: Don’t use hot chili peppers; the traditional variety is mild and spicy. And don’t forget the mustard – it ties everything together.

Nutritional values (per serving, estimated)

• Calories: approx. 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Fat: 25 g

These values vary depending on the exact ingredients.

FAQ – Häufige Fragen zum Original North Carolina Hot Dog

Did you like the recipe or do you have any further questions? Feel free to write them in the comments!