Cheddar Dogs with Cider-Braised Leeks and ApplesKenji Toma
Leeks and apples simmered in cider add a hint of sweetness—a nice contrast to the sharp melted cheddar. If you can find oblong pretzel rolls at your market, they'll make an ideal accompaniment to these English-style hot dogs.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 6
Ingredients
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter
2 cups (generous) thinly sliced leeks (white and pale green parts only)
1 apple, peeled, cored, diced
1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
Pinch of ground allspice
Coarse kosher salt
1 1/2 cups hard apple cider or 1 1/4 cups apple cider and 1/4 cup bourbon
6 grilled hot dog buns or brioche-style oblong rolls
Dijon mustard
6 grilled all-beef hot dogs
2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (1/2 cup packed)
Preparation
Step 1
Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and apple. Cover; cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes. Mix in caraway and allspice; season with coarse salt and pepper. Add hard cider; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered, until most of liquid is cooked away, about 16 minutes.
Step 2
Arrange buns or rolls on plates. Spread each with mustard, then top with grilled hot dogs. Sprinkle dogs with cheese and top with leek mixture.
