In the heart of Michigan, the famous coney dogs are a local treasure, known for their distinctive taste and rich history. One of the most coveted flavors comes from Jerzee's Coney Island, where the coney sauce reigns supreme. This secret sauce, with its complex layers of flavors, can be surprisingly simple to make at home. Here's how you can recreate Jerzee's Coney Sauce, bringing a bit of Michigan tradition to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Making Jerzee’s Coney Sauce requires a blend of ingredients that work together to create a deeply flavorful, comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of ground beef (80⁄20 is ideal for that nice balance of flavor and fat)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
- 1⁄2 cup of beef broth
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of allspice
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of cloves
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Begin by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until it starts to brown. Drain off most of the grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Spicing It Up
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, allspice, cinnamon, and cloves. These spices give Jerzee’s coney sauce its unique profile, distinguishing it from other chili sauces. Allow the spices to bloom in the hot oil for about a minute.
Step 3: Building the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, mixing well. Add the apple cider vinegar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer and Serve
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it with a bit more beef broth.
⭐ Note: Jerzee's sauce has a velvety texture, so if you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender or in a regular blender after cooking.
Tips for the Perfect Coney Dog
- Hot Dogs: Choose all-beef hot dogs for that authentic taste.
- Buns
- Toppings: While Jerzee’s is known for simplicity, traditional toppings like finely diced onions and a drizzle of yellow mustard complement the sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade Jerzee’s style coney sauce over steamed or grilled hot dogs on soft buns. Don’t forget to add a side of crinkle-cut fries or a simple salad to round out the meal. This sauce can also be used in other dishes like nachos, over grilled meats, or even as a base for chili mac.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
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Yes, this sauce actually improves in flavor if made a day in advance. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.
What makes Jerzee's Coney Sauce unique?
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The unique spice blend, particularly the use of allspice, cinnamon, and cloves, gives Jerzee's sauce its distinctive, slightly sweet yet deeply savory flavor.
Can I freeze Jerzee's Coney Sauce?
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Absolutely! Store in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Embrace the comfort and tradition of Jerzee’s Coney Island by making this iconic sauce at home. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a celebration of Michigan’s culinary heritage, this sauce will surely impress. With its rich, layered flavors, it’s not just about the hot dog; it’s about creating memories around a uniquely Michigan experience. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and bring a piece of Michigan’s heart to your table.
