Authentic Michigan Detroit-Style Coney Dog

Introduction

The Detroit-Style Coney Dog is a beloved Michigan staple, featuring grilled hot dogs topped with beef chili, mustard, and onions. With the Arteflame grill's high heat and even cooking surface, you’ll create the perfect Coney dog with a juicy interior and a flavorful sear.

Ingredients

• 4 beef hot dogs
• 4 hot dog buns
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup yellow mustard
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until it reaches optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Cook the chili

1. Place the ground beef on the Arteflame flat cooktop griddle near the center where it's hottest.
2. Cook the beef while breaking it apart with a spatula until it's browned.
3. Move the beef to a slightly cooler zone on the cooktop and add Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine.
5. Let the chili simmer until it thickens, adjusting its placement on the cooktop for even cooking.

Step 3: Grill the hot dogs

1. Place the hot dogs on the center grill grate, allowing them to sear at 1,000°F.
2. Rotate the hot dogs until they develop a crispy sear on all sides.
3. Move the hot dogs to the flat cooktop to bring them to the optimal temperature.

Step 4: Toast the buns

1. Butter the inside of each hot dog bun.
2. Place the buns on the flat cooktop and toast until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Coney dogs

1. Place a grilled hot dog into each bun.
2. Spoon the beef chili generously over each hot dog.
3. Drizzle with yellow mustard and top with finely chopped onions.

Tips

• Remove the hot dogs from the grill when they are about 15°F below the desired temperature, as they will continue cooking off the grill.
• Keep the chili warm by shifting it to the cooler zones of the Arteflame cooktop.
• Use all-beef franks for the best flavor and texture.

Variations

1. Cheesy Coney: Melt shredded cheddar cheese over the chili for an extra creamy twist.
2. Spicy Coney: Add diced jalapeños and a dash of cayenne pepper to the chili for a fiery kick.
3. BBQ Coney: Replace the tomato sauce with barbecue sauce to add a smoky, tangy flavor.
4. Loaded Coney: Top with crispy bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded flavor.
5. Chicago-Style Inspired: Use sport peppers and relish in addition to the chili for a fusion variation.

Best Pairings

• Crispy sweet potato fries cooked on the Arteflame griddle
• A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing
• A cold Michigan craft beer to balance the richness
• Grilled corn on the cob with butter and herbs

Conclusion

Grilling a Detroit-Style Coney Dog on the Arteflame grill gives you unmatched flavor and texture. The high heat ensures a perfect sear, while the even cooktop makes preparing chili simple and delicious. This Michigan classic will impress at any gathering!