BBQ Hot Dogs with Cilantro Slaw Recipe – Perfect Summer Grilling
Savor the harmony of grilled flavor and crunchy greens in every bite.
When it comes to summer grilling, few things capture the essence of outdoor cooking quite like perfectly prepared BBQ hot dogs. This recipe elevates the humble hot dog into something truly special by combining smoky barbecue flavors with a fresh, vibrant cilantro slaw that provides the perfect contrast of textures and tastes.
The beauty of this BBQ hot dogs with cilantro slaw recipe lies in its perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite. The franks are slathered with a smoky barbecue glaze and grilled to perfection, then loaded with a crisp, refreshing slaw made from zesty ingredients, fresh cilantro, and crunchy cabbage that creates an unforgettable combination.
The Perfect Summer Grilling Recipe
This recipe represents everything wonderful about summer cookouts and backyard grilling. The combination of barbecue sauce-glazed hot dogs with fresh, crunchy slaw creates a harmony of flavors and textures that makes these hot dogs stand out from ordinary ballpark fare. The smoky char from the grill paired with the cool, creamy slaw makes each bite a delightful experience.
What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its accessibility. Using simple, readily available ingredients, you can transform basic hot dogs into something that feels gourmet. The cilantro slaw isn’t just a topping – it’s an integral part of the dish that complements the rich, smoky flavors of the barbecue sauce while adding freshness and crunch.
Essential Ingredients for BBQ Hot Dogs with Cilantro Slaw
The success of this recipe depends on using quality ingredients that work together harmoniously. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both the slaw and the hot dogs themselves.
For the Cilantro Slaw
The slaw is the star of this recipe, providing a fresh counterpoint to the rich barbecue flavors. You’ll need 1/2 cup mayonnaise as the creamy base, combined with 3 tablespoons whole milk to achieve the perfect consistency. 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar adds the necessary tang, while 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard provides depth and slight heat.
For sweetness and balance, include 2 teaspoons sugar, along with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Don’t forget black pepper to taste for additional seasoning.
The vegetable components include 1 shredded carrot for sweetness and color, 1/4 small head savoy cabbage, shredded for delicate crunch, 1/4 head red cabbage, shredded for color and texture, and 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced for sharp flavor contrast. Finally, 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped provides the signature herbal freshness that gives this slaw its name.
For the BBQ Hot Dogs
Keep the hot dog preparation simple but effective. You’ll need vegetable oil for the grill to prevent sticking, 8 brioche hot dog buns for their rich, buttery flavor and soft texture, 8 all-beef hot dogs for the best flavor and texture, and 1/2 cup barbecue sauce for glazing and serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Success with this recipe comes from proper preparation and timing. The key is having your slaw ready and your grill properly heated before you start cooking the hot dogs.
Preparing the Cilantro Slaw
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats up, focus on preparing the slaw since it benefits from some resting time to allow the flavors to meld.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. This dressing should be creamy but not too thick – the milk helps achieve the perfect consistency that will coat the vegetables without being heavy.
Add the shredded carrot, both types of shredded cabbage, and thinly sliced red onion to the dressing. Toss everything together until all the vegetables are well coated. At this point, don’t add the cilantro yet – save it for just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
Grilling the Hot Dogs and Buns
Once your grill reaches medium-high heat, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving those perfect grill marks without having your food stick to the grates.
Start by grilling the brioche hot dog buns cut-side down until they’re lightly toasted, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. The brioche buns toast quickly due to their butter content, so watch them carefully. Once toasted, remove them to a platter and set aside.
Next, add the hot dogs to the grill. Brush them immediately with some of the barbecue sauce – this initial coating will help create that glossy, caramelized exterior that makes these hot dogs so appealing. Cook the hot dogs, turning them regularly and brushing with more barbecue sauce each time you turn them. This process should take about 4 to 5 minutes total, and you’re looking for the hot dogs to be charred and glossy all over.
Final Assembly
Place the grilled hot dogs in the toasted brioche buns and brush them with any remaining barbecue sauce for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Just before serving – and this timing is important – add the chopped fresh cilantro to the slaw and toss it in. Adding the cilantro at the last minute ensures it stays bright green and maintains its fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Top each hot dog generously with the cilantro slaw. The contrast between the warm, smoky hot dog and the cool, crisp slaw creates the perfect bite.
Tips for Perfect Results
Several key techniques will help you achieve the best results with this recipe. First, don’t rush the grilling process. Medium-high heat allows the hot dogs to cook through while developing that desirable char without burning the barbecue sauce.
Slaw preparation timing is crucial. While the vegetables can be prepped and dressed ahead of time, always add the cilantro just before serving to maintain its color and flavor.
When it comes to barbecue sauce application, brush it on in thin layers rather than dumping it all on at once. This technique helps build up that glossy, caramelized coating that looks and tastes so appealing.
For the vegetable preparation, try to keep your shredding consistent. Uniform pieces not only look better but also ensure even distribution of flavors in each bite.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These BBQ hot dogs with cilantro slaw are perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to elaborate cookout spreads. They work wonderfully as part of a larger barbecue menu alongside grilled corn, potato salad, and other summer favorites.
Consider serving with additional barbecue sauce on the side for those who want extra, and don’t forget to provide napkins – these are deliciously messy to eat!
Recipe Variations
While this recipe is perfect as written, there are several variations you might consider. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper in the slaw or add sliced jalapeños. If you prefer a sweeter slaw, you can increase the sugar slightly or add a touch of honey to the dressing.
For those who aren’t cilantro fans, fresh parsley makes an excellent substitute, or you could use a combination of fresh herbs like chives and dill for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The cilantro slaw can be prepared several hours ahead of time, but remember to add the cilantro just before serving. Store the prepared slaw (without cilantro) covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
The barbecue sauce can be brushed on the hot dogs and they can be grilled up to an hour before serving if needed. Keep them warm in a low oven or on a cooler part of the grill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe without a grill?
A: Absolutely! You can cook the hot dogs in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning frequently and brushing with barbecue sauce. Toast the buns in a toaster or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Q: How long does the cilantro slaw keep?
A: The slaw (without cilantro) can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness and color.
Q: Can I substitute the brioche buns?
A: Yes, you can use regular hot dog buns, potato rolls, or even slider buns. Brioche adds richness, but any good quality bun will work well with this recipe.
Q: What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A: A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce works perfectly with this recipe. Avoid overly spicy sauces since the slaw provides the cooling element to balance the heat.
Q: Can I prepare the vegetables for the slaw ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can shred the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately from the dressing in the refrigerator, then combine just before serving.
Perfect for Summer Entertaining
This BBQ hot dogs with cilantro slaw recipe represents the best of summer cooking – it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for entertaining. The combination of smoky, sweet, and fresh flavors creates a memorable meal that guests will be talking about long after the cookout ends.
The recipe serves 8, making it perfect for family gatherings or small parties. The interactive nature of topping hot dogs makes it fun for both adults and children, while the sophisticated flavor combination will impress even the most discerning palates.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, these BBQ hot dogs with cilantro slaw deliver on both flavor and visual appeal. The bright colors of the slaw contrast beautifully with the rich, dark barbecue glaze on the hot dogs, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to look at as it is to eat.
References
- https://www.fustinis.com/blogs/recipes/bbq-hot-dogs-with-cilantro-slaw
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a36450920/bbq-hot-dogs-with-cilantro-slaw-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/g65272788/4th-of-july-hot-dog-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g43566328/hot-dog-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g64769026/easy-grilling-recipes/
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