Rhode Island Hot Wiener Sauce #1: A Taste of Pure Comfort
There’s something truly magical about regional food specialties. They’re more than just recipes; they’re edible anchors to place, to memory, to a shared identity. For me, growing up not far from the Ocean State, the siren song of the Rhode Island “hot weiner” was an undeniable part of summer cookouts and late-night cravings. It wasn’t just the snap of the casing or the warm, yielding bun – it was that impossibly rich, savory, and slightly mysterious meat sauce that truly made it sing. I’ve tried many versions over the years, each claiming to be the authentic one, but this particular recipe, Rhode Island Hot Wiener Sauce #1, holds a special place in my culinary heart. It’s the one that consistently delivers that comforting, nostalgic flavor I’ve come to adore.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Yield: Approximately 5 cups
- Dietary Type: Meat Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Cinnamon, to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
Instructions
- Begin by placing a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the 1/2 pound of ground beef to the hot pan.
- Add the 1 medium onion, finely chopped, to the pan with the ground beef.
- Cook the ground beef and chopped onion together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on your stovetop. You want to ensure all the pink is gone from the beef.
- Once the beef and onion are cooked through, drain off any excess grease from the pan.
- Pour in the 1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce. Stir well to combine it with the ground beef and onion.
- Add the 1 tablespoon of chili powder to the mixture.
- Incorporate the 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring the spices and tomato sauce are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
- Now comes the subtle but crucial addition: cinnamon, to taste. Start with a small pinch, stir, and taste. Add more incrementally until you achieve a flavor that complements the savory elements without overpowering them. The goal is a warm, complex undertone.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently over low heat for at least 20 minutes. This simmering period is essential for the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming the ingredients into a cohesive, delicious sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After simmering, the Rhode Island Hot Wiener Sauce #1 is ready to be served.
Expert Tips & Tricks
The beauty of this sauce lies in its simplicity, but a few nuances can elevate it further. When browning the ground beef and onion, don’t rush the process. Allowing the onion to soften and sweeten in the rendered fat from the beef builds a foundational layer of flavor. If you prefer a finer texture in your sauce, you can mince the onion very finely or even pulse it briefly in a food processor before adding it to the pan. The addition of cinnamon is often a point of curiosity. The key is “to taste.” Begin with a very small amount, perhaps a scant 1/8 teaspoon, and gradually increase it. You’re looking for a subtle warmth and depth, not a dessert-like spice. A common mistake is adding too much too soon. Remember, it’s a background note that adds complexity. The simmering time is also vital. Don’t cut it short. Letting the sauce bubble away gently allows the chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cinnamon to truly infuse into the tomato sauce and meat.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
The quintessential Rhode Island hot wiener experience involves serving this rich, savory sauce generously over a steamed hot dog nestled in a soft, steamed bun. Top it off with the traditional accoutrements: a squiggle of yellow mustard, a sprinkle of finely chopped white onion, and a dash of celery salt. This sauce is also wonderfully versatile. It makes a fantastic topping for french fries, a flavorful addition to macaroni and cheese, or even as a base for a quick chili.
Leftovers are a treasure! This Rhode Island Hot Wiener Sauce #1 keeps exceptionally well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. When ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Freezing is also an option for longer storage; it should remain delicious for up to 2-3 months when properly sealed.
Nutritional Information
This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx. 1/2 cup) | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 122.2 kcal | – |
| Calories from Fat | – | 64% |
| Total Fat | 7.1 g | 10% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.7 g | 13% |
| Cholesterol | 30.8 mg | 10% |
| Sodium | 302.1 mg | 12% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 5.4 g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% |
| Sugars | 3 g | 12% |
| Protein | 9.5 g | 18% |
Variations & Substitutions
While this recipe stands beautifully on its own, a few simple tweaks can cater to different preferences. For a slightly spicier kick, you can increase the chili powder slightly or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a smoother sauce without any meat chunks, you can crumble the ground beef very finely during cooking or even use finely ground hamburger. For those seeking a leaner option, lean ground beef or even ground turkey can be substituted, though the richness might be slightly altered. Some families opt to add a small amount of finely diced celery along with the onion for an extra layer of aromatic depth, though it’s not part of this specific recipe.
FAQs
Q: What makes Rhode Island hot wiener sauce unique?
A: The signature elements are the combination of savory meat, tomato sauce, chili powder, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a distinctive flavor profile unlike other chili or meat sauces.
Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The flavors actually improve as they meld. It can be made a day or two in advance and gently reheated before serving.
Q: How much cinnamon should I use?
A: “To taste” is the key. Start with a tiny pinch and add more incrementally until you achieve a subtle warmth that complements the other spices.
Q: What is the traditional way to serve this sauce?
A: It’s traditionally served hot over a steamed hot dog in a steamed bun, with yellow mustard, chopped onion, and celery salt.
Q: Is this sauce spicy?
A: It has a mild warmth from the chili powder, but it’s not typically considered very spicy. You can adjust the chili powder for more heat.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a taste of Rhode Island’s beloved culinary icon. This Rhode Island Hot Wiener Sauce #1 is more than just a condiment; it’s a celebration of simple, honest flavors that evoke a sense of home and comfort. Whether you’re a Rhode Island native longing for a nostalgic bite or a curious foodie eager to explore new regional delights, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Prepare a batch, gather your favorite hot dogs and buns, and let the irresistible aroma transport you. Share it with loved ones, savor each bite, and discover why this humble sauce has captured so many hearts. Happy cooking!