Grand Rapids Dog

Grand Rapids’ geographic spot inspired this tasty dog—a hybrid between a classic Chicago dog (the two cities share a Lake Michigan shoreline) and a Detroit Coney.

Ingredients

For the Coney Sauce

For even better flavor, make this mild, fine-grained chili ahead of time and reheat just before serving.

Makes about 4 cups

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20) 
  • 3 cups water 
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste 
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • 1 large garlic clove, minced 
  • 1 bay leaf 
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder 
  • 1 tablespoon paprika 
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder 
  • 1 teaspoon salt 
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin 
  • 2 tablespoons finely ground cornmeal

Instructions

  1. Grill hot dogs to desired doneness. 
  2. Arrange hot dogs in toasted buns. 
  3. Top each hot dog with plenty of Coney sauce, followed by a scattering of chopped tomato and onion. 
  4. Top each with 2 pickle spears and a sport pepper.

For the Coney Sauce

  1. Combine the beef and the water in a heavy saucepan and stir together, breaking up the beef into very fine pieces. 
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine well. 
  3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer until thickened and well flavored, about 50 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings.