Kimchi Chili Hot Dogs Recipe

Today we’re entering the world the fusion food and experiencing a marriage between an all-American classic hot dog and a spicy, tangy kimchi chili. We’re making Kimchi Hot Dogs – yaa you read that right!

The oh-so-humble backyard BBQ hot dog is getting a Korean makeover and let me tell you, it’s the kind of transformation that’ll make you wonder why you haven’t tried this sooner.

Why you’ll love this recipe

If you’re craving something unique, exciting, and downright delicious for your next summer gathering or backyard BBQ – *enter the Kimchi Hot Dog*.

Most of us have had a standard hot dog served in a hot dog bun but the real game-changer here is the homemade kimchi chili. It’s spicy, tangy, and hearty – just filled with a medley of textures and complex flavors that complement the hot dog deliciously.

But it’s not just about the taste, it’s also incredibly easy and simple to put together. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and something that you can easily prepare. The best part about this recipe is that the kimchi chili can be made in advance and reheated when you’re ready to serve the hot dogs.

So, whether you’re throwing a backyard barbecue, or just craving a quick yet elevated lunch or dinner, this recipe does not disappoint.

Kimchi Hot Dogs Ingredients & Substitutions

Hot dogs: If you want to go for the classic experience, opt for beef hotdogs. Otherwise, you can use any you prefer!

Hot dog buns: I like to use potato hot dog buns — they’re soft and richer tasting than other types of buns. But feel free to use ones that you like or have available. 

Kimchi Chili Ingredients & Substitutions

Neutral oil: Used for sauteing. I usually use avocado oil but corn, grapeseed, canola, vegetable, peanut, and sunflower seed oils are all great options.

Onion: Added for flavor and a subtle hint of sweetness

Garlic cloves: Added for a delicious garlicky flavor and aroma. Feel free to add more but not less! 

Kimchi: I recommend using aged, sour, and well-fermented kimchi because it’s extra tangy and flavorful. If you only have fresh kimchi, mixing in a splash of white vinegar will give you similar results. 

Ground beef: I kept it simple and classic by using ground beef but it can be substituted with sausages, ground pork, chicken, turkey, or even lentils and tofu if you prefer plant-based.

Onion powder: For seasoning the ground beef

Garlic powder:  For seasoning the ground beef

Gochugaru: For added spice! This can be substituted with red chili flakes. If you want the chili to be milder in spice, you can skip this. 

Chili powder: Also added for spice and flavor. 

Smoked paprika: For a bold smoky flavor 

Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and also adds umami

Ketchup: Adds a sweet, tangy, and umami flavor

Dijon mustard: Contributes a sharp tangy flavor and some spice. My go-to brand is Grey Poupon

Worcestershire: Loaded with umami and also slightly tangy. I recommend the Lea & Perrins brand. 

Chicken stock: Adds body to the chili. This can be substituted with water

Sugar: Adds some sweetness to balance everything out

Pinto beans: Beans are a must in chili! It makes the heartier and also helps to thicken the chili. Pinto beans can be substituted with your favorite beans including red kidney beans, cannellini beans, and black beans. I use canned pinto beans to save time. If you do not like beans, you can skip this. 

Salt: For seasoning

Ground black pepper: For seasoning

Garnish Ingredients & Substitutions

Shredded cheddar cheese: For that classic chili hot dog topping. Feel free to substitute it with Mozzarella, Swiss, pepper jack, or any melty cheese that you prefer

Scallions: Adds freshness and color for garnish

Jalapenos: For added spice

How to Prepare Kimchi Hot Dogs

Step 1: Saute the aromatics

In a pan, heat neutral oil over medium heat. Toss in the onion and garlic, then saute for 2 to 3 minutes. 

Step 2: Add the kimchi

Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, add the kimchi and saute for 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add the ground beef

Toss in the ground beef. Using a spatula, break it up into small pieces

Step 4: Add the seasonings

Season with onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, gochugaru, salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Add tomato paste

Add the tomato paste and mix until everything is evenly coated. 

Step 6: Add other wet ingredients

Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, dijon mustard, Worcestershire, chicken stock, sugar, and pinto beans. 

Step 7: Simmer to thicken

Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until it reaches your desired thickness. 

Step 8: Cook the hot dogs

Cook the hot dogs according to the package instructions. 

Step 9: Assemble the kimchi chili hot dog

To assemble, place a hot dog inside a hot dog bun. Then slather on a generous amount of chili on top.

Step 10: Garnish and serve

Garnish with shredded cheese, scallions, and jalapenos.

Cooking Tips for Kimchi Hot Dogs

• For best results, use fermented or extra sour kimchi. The funkiness and sourness of the kimchi will add tons of flavor to the chili.
• Be mindful of the saltiness of the chili. Since hot dogs are already salty on their own, you don’t want the chili to be too seasoned otherwise, the kimchi hot dog will turn out overly salty.
• The chili can be made ahead of time and reheated right before serving. This makes it easy for gatherings, BBQ’s and hosting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of kimchi is best for kimchi chili hot dogs? 

Any kimchi you have on hand works for kimchi chili hot dogs! I used napa cabbage kimchi because it’s what I usually have in my fridge. Just make sure that the kimchi is aged and well-fermented. You’ll know it’s aged if it tastes sour and funky. If you only have fresh geotjeori kimchi, mix in a splash of white vinegar and it should be similar in taste. 

Can I make kimchi chili hot dogs without ground beef?

Yes, absolutely! Ground beef can be substituted with other ground meat including chicken, turkey, pork, and even sausages. To make a meatless kimchi chili, you can use lentils, crumbled tofu, or leave it out completely! 

How spicy are kimchi chili hot dogs?

Generally speaking, kimchi isn’t super spicy, however, the spiciness of kimchi chili hot dogs will really depend on how spicy your kimchi is. I added gochugaru, chili powder, smoked paprika, and jalapeno to intensify the spiciness so if you prefer a milder chili hot dog, you can omit some or all of these. 

What other toppings can I put on kimchi chili hot dogs? 

There are so many toppings you can add to your kimchi chili hot dogs. The possibilities are truly endless! You can add a drizzle of Japanese mayo or add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. Some other topping ideas include bacon, chopped red onions, pickles, avocado slices, and sesame seeds. 

Can I make kimchi chili hot dogs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep each component ahead of time and assemble it right before serving. I recommend cooking the chili and allowing it to cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the kimchi chili over the stovetop or microwave. Toast the bread and cook the hot dogs then assemble!

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