Hot Dog Manchurian: The Ultimate Indo-Chinese Fusion Snack
Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will completely change how you see hot dogs! Welcome to the world of Indo-Chinese cuisine—a unique fusion born in Indian restaurants that combines the boldness of Chinese spices with Indian flavors. Today, we're taking that concept and creating a wildly delicious, fun, and utterly addictive appetizer: Hot Dog Manchurian.
This recipe transforms simple hot dogs into crispy, golden balls, which are then tossed in a famous spicy, garlicky, and slightly sweet Manchurian sauce. It's the perfect party snack, game-day food, or fun project for your next family dinner. Let's get cooking!
What is Manchurian?
If you're new to Indo-Chinese food, Manchurian is a superstar dish. Traditionally made with chicken (Gobi Manchurian) or cauliflower (Veg Manchurian), it involves coating the main ingredient in a spiced batter, deep-frying it until crispy, and then glazing it in a signature sauce made with soy, ginger, garlic, and chili. Our version uses hot dogs for a fun and incredibly tasty twist!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Unexpectedly Amazing: The perfect conversation starter for any party.
- Quick & Easy: Uses simple ingredients for a gourmet-looking result.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will go crazy for these.
- Totally Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking.
Ingredients You'll Need
(Serves 3-4 as an appetizer)
For the Hot Dog Balls:
- 6-7 beef or pork hot dogs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2-3 tbsp water (or as needed)
- Oil for deep frying
For the Manchurian Sauce:
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp finely chopped ginger
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped capsicum (green bell pepper)
- 3 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (preferably dark)
- 1 tsp red chili sauce or Sriracha
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable stock
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
- 2 tbsp chopped spring onions (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Hot Dog Balls
Chop the hot dogs into very small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped hot dogs, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, ginger-garlic paste, soy sauce, and black pepper. Add water little by little and mix until everything comes together into a thick, bindable mixture. Shape this mixture into small, bite-sized balls.
Step 2: Fry to Perfection
Heat oil for deep frying in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the balls in batches. Fry them for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Manchurian Sauce
In a separate wok or large pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over high heat. Add the chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chopped onions and capsicum. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are slightly cooked but still crunchy.
Step 4: Bring the Sauce Together
Lower the heat. Add tomato ketchup, soy sauce, red chili sauce, and vinegar. Stir quickly to combine.
Add water/stock, sugar, and salt. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir and slowly add it to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously. The sauce will thicken quickly. Let it cook for another minute.
Step 5: The Grand Finale - Toss it All!
Add the fried hot dog balls to the sauce. Gently toss them until they are evenly and generously coated with the glossy Manchurian sauce.
Garnish with a generous handful of chopped spring onions (green onions).
Step 6: Serve Immediately!
Serve your incredible Hot Dog Manchurian immediately while it's still hot and crispy. It's best enjoyed as a standalone appetizer or with a side of fried rice or noodles.
Chef's Tips for the Best Results
- Hot Dog Choice: Using beef hot dogs will give a firmer texture and richer flavor than chicken or turkey dogs.
- Keep it Crispy: Add the fried balls to the sauce just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Spice Level: Control the heat with the number of green chilies and the amount of red chili sauce.
- Garnish is Key: The fresh spring onions add a crucial fresh crunch. Don't skip them!
Conclusion: Your New Party Favorite
Hot Dog Manchurian is more than just a recipe; it's a fun, creative, and delicious culinary experiment that celebrates fusion food at its best. It’s surprisingly easy to make and is guaranteed to earn you rave reviews from everyone who tries it. So, break out of your routine and give this unforgettable snack a try!
Did you make this recipe? We'd love to see your creation! Tag your photos on social media.
Happy Cooking!
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