Sweet and Spicy North Carolina Hot Dogs

Introduction

Get ready to experience classic Southern flavor with a grilled upgrade! These Sweet and Spicy North Carolina Hot Dogs are an irresistible blend of tangy slaw, zesty mustard, and smoky chili all nestled on a perfectly grilled hot dog. Using the Arteflame grill lets you grill everything — dogs, chili, and even the slaw — to mouthwatering perfection all in one place, with no pots or pans needed. Fire it up and let’s build some flavor!

Ingredients

• 8 all-beef hot dogs
• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
• 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 cups chili (beef or veggie, freshly prepared)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center base of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack dry firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the fire to create a hot, even cooking surface.

Step 2: Prepare the slaw

1. Mix shredded cabbage, grated carrot, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Place this slaw on the cooler outer edge of the Arteflame flat top to slightly warm and soften while keeping its crunch.

Step 3: Heat up the chili

1. Scoop chili directly onto the flat cooktop closer to the center for faster heat-up.
2. Stir occasionally until hot, then move it to the edge to keep warm.

Step 4: Grill the hot dogs

1. Place hot dogs onto the center grill grate for a quick sear at 1,000°F to lock in juices.
2. After 1-2 minutes, move them to the flat cooktop to finish cooking evenly.
3. Rotate to avoid overcooking and grill until the internal temp is about 160°F, then remove at 145°F to let carryover heat do the rest.

Step 5: Toast the buns

1. Spread a thin layer of butter inside each bun.
2. Lay buns face down on the hot flat surface until golden and crisp.

Step 6: Assemble the hot dogs

1. Place each grilled hot dog inside a toasted bun.
2. Top with warm chili, slaw, and a generous drizzle of yellow mustard.
3. Add a few drops of hot sauce if desired for a spicier kick.

Tips

• Use freshly shredded cabbage for maximum crunch.
• Butter enhances the flavor and grill marks on the buns.
• Let the chili sit closer to the center of the grill for a richer, more caramelized flavor.
• Move hot dogs to various temperature zones for perfect, juicy doneness.
• Remove meat 15°F before it hits your target temperature—it will finish cooking off the grill.

Variations

1. NC BBQ Hot Dog: Add a spoonful of vinegar-based pulled pork along with the slaw and mustard.
2. Pimento Cheese Hot Dog: Swap chili for melted pimento cheese spread for Southern richness.
3. Jalapeño Honey Dog: Grill sliced jalapeños on the flat top and drizzle with honey over the slaw topping.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Dog: Wrap each hot dog in bacon and sear on the grill grate before finishing on the flat top.
5. Pickle Relish & Slaw Combo: Add sweet pickle relish under the slaw layer for a sweet and sour profile.

Best pairings

• Sweet iced tea or lemonade
• Grilled corn on the cob with butter and sea salt
• Potato salad or coleslaw
• Crispy grilled potato wedges
• Chilled light lager or wheat beer

Conclusion

These Sweet and Spicy North Carolina Hot Dogs are the definition of backyard gourmet. With chili, slaw, and the unparalleled sear of the Arteflame grill, your cookout just leveled up. Impress your guests with bold flavors and visually stunning presentation – all flame-grilled to perfection!