If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on the classic hot dog, the Carolina Slaw Dog is the perfect choice. Combining the juicy goodness of a hot dog with the tangy, crunchy texture of creamy coleslaw, this Southern-inspired dish delivers a mouthwatering blend of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving a new take on a hot dog, the Carolina Slaw Dog is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect Carolina Slaw Dog, with tips on how to prepare both the slaw and the hot dog for the ultimate flavor experience. Let’s dive into the recipe!
What Makes a Carolina Slaw Dog Special?
The Carolina Slaw Dog is a popular street food in the southern United States, especially in North and South Carolina. The dish features a hot dog topped with a tangy, vinegar-based slaw that perfectly balances the rich, savory flavor of the sausage. Unlike traditional coleslaw that uses a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, Carolina-style slaw relies on vinegar, mustard, and spices for a zesty, slightly tart flavor profile that complements the hot dog.
Ingredients for the Carolina Slaw
To make the Carolina Slaw Dog, you’ll first need to prepare the coleslaw. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
For the Hot Dogs:
- 4 all-beef hot dog sausages (or your preferred type)
- 4 soft hot dog buns
- Mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- Pickles (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Carolina Slaw Dogs
Step 1: Prepare the Carolina Slaw
The key to the Carolina Slaw Dog is the tangy slaw, so let’s start with making it first.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots. Toss them together to evenly mix the vegetables.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, honey (or sugar, if using), celery seeds, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat). The vinegar and mustard-based dressing give the slaw its signature zesty flavor.
- Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated in the dressing.
- Chill the Slaw: Let the slaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial, as the longer the slaw sits, the better it will taste.
Step 2: Grill the Hot Dogs
While your slaw is chilling, it’s time to cook the hot dogs.
- Grill or Cook the Hot Dogs: Heat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium heat. Grill the hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are nicely charred and heated through. You can also cook the hot dogs in a saucepan with a little water or directly on the stove if you prefer.
- Warm the Buns: While the hot dogs are cooking, toast the hot dog buns lightly on the grill or in the oven for a few minutes. This will add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your Carolina Slaw Dog.
Step 3: Assemble the Carolina Slaw Dog
Now that both the slaw and hot dogs are ready, it’s time to put everything together.
- Place the Hot Dog in the Bun: Take each toasted hot dog bun and place a grilled hot dog inside.
- Top with Slaw: Generously top each hot dog with the chilled Carolina slaw. The crunchy, tangy slaw should cover the hot dog and spill over slightly for that authentic street food look.
- Optional Toppings: If desired, add a drizzle of mustard, a few pickle slices, or even some diced onions for extra flavor. The classic Carolina Slaw Dog is usually served with mustard, but feel free to customize it to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Carolina Slaw Dogs are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with some classic sides. Here are a few options to complete your meal:
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweet and savory combo of Carolina Slaw Dogs and crispy sweet potato fries is unbeatable.
- Corn on the Cob: A Southern classic that pairs perfectly with the tangy slaw.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad adds a comforting element to the meal.
- Baked Beans: Rich, smoky baked beans are a perfect side dish to balance out the tanginess of the slaw.
The Carolina Slaw Dog is a fun and flavorful twist on a hot dog, perfect for any occasion, from a backyard barbecue to a casual weeknight dinner. With its zesty, vinegar-based slaw and juicy grilled hot dog, it’s a dish that packs a punch in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of Southern comfort food or simply love trying new takes on classic recipes, the Carolina Slaw Dog is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
So fire up the grill, whip up the slaw, and get ready to enjoy this Southern-inspired treat. Your taste buds will thank you!
