Sonic's Chili Cheese Coney: Ultimate Guide To Cooking

Sonic's Extra Long Chili Cheese Coney is a delicious and indulgent treat, perfect for those days when you're craving something comforting and satisfying. With 660 calories per hot dog, this dish is definitely an occasional pleasure, but it's worth the wait! If you're a fan of chili cheese dogs, then this extra-long version is sure to impress. The process of making this mouth-watering dish involves carefully selecting and preparing the right ingredients, from the buns to the franks, and of course, the all-important chili. The result is a messy, ooey-gooey delight that will leave you wanting more.

Choosing the right hot dog buns

The hot dog bun is an essential part of the chili cheese coney experience. It's not just about the hot dog and toppings; the bun plays a crucial role in holding everything together. A poorly constructed bun can ruin the entire meal. So, what should you look for when choosing the right hot dog buns for your Sonic extra-long chili cheese coney?

Firstly, let's talk about texture. The ideal hot dog bun should have a soft, fluffy, and mildly sweet interior with a strong, sturdy bottom. This combination provides a satisfying chew while ensuring the bun can withstand the weight of the hot dog and generous toppings without falling apart. Avoid buns that are overly soft or doughy, as they can easily turn mushy when loaded with juicy toppings like chili and cheese.

Next, consider the thickness of the bread. A bun with too much bread can overwhelm the taste of the hot dog and its toppings. Look for buns with just the right amount of bread to complement, not overpower, the flavors of your coney.

The flavor of the bun is also important. A hint of sweetness, a touch of yeastiness, or a subtle nuttiness from seeds can enhance the overall taste experience. Brioche buns, for example, offer a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the saltiness of the hot dog and chili.

Toasting is another factor to consider. Some buns toast up beautifully, adding a subtle crunch and texture to your bite. If you plan on toasting your bun, look for those that can handle it without becoming too dry or crumbly.

Finally, don't forget about structural integrity. The bun should be able to handle the weight of the hot dog and toppings without breaking or collapsing. This is especially important if you like to load up on the chili, cheese, and other toppings. Look for buns with good structure and a sturdy bottom layer.

Now that we've outlined the key considerations, here are some specific recommendations for hot dog buns that will elevate your Sonic extra-long chili cheese coney experience:

• Nature's Harvest 100% Whole Wheat Hot Dog Buns: These buns are soft and pillowy on the inside, with textured grains on the outside, adding a nutty flavor to your coney.
• Francisco International 6" Hot Dog Buns: These seeded buns offer a great mouthfeel and a subtle nuttiness, elevating the classic hot dog experience.
• Marketside Brioche Hot Dog Buns: While ideal for lobster rolls, these brioche buns can also be a great choice for your coney. They have a soft texture and are structurally sound, ensuring your chili and cheese stay put.
• Nature's Own Butter Buns: Made with real butter, these buns offer a rich taste and soft fluffiness that pairs well with the grilled hot dog. They have a balanced texture that is soft yet firm enough to hold your coney without falling apart.
• Ball Park Classic Hot Dog Buns: These buns have a delightful texture and flavor, and their firmness allows them to handle toppings without becoming soggy or falling apart.
• Pepperidge Farm Top-Sliced Hot Dog Buns: These buns are soft, moist, and plush, with a wide cut that can accommodate wider sausages or heftier sandwiches. They toast up nicely, adding a subtle crunch to your coney.
• Whole Foods Brioche Hot Dog Buns: These mass-produced brioche buns are fluffy, slightly sweet, and rich. They have excellent construction and won't crumble or fall apart easily, making them perfect for loading up with toppings.
• Arnold Potato Buns: Potato buns offer a hint of sweetness that pairs well with salty meats. Arnold's potato buns have an impressive cushiness and maintain their structure even with generous toppings.
• Martin's Potato Rolls: Martin's potato rolls are the gold standard for hot dog buns. They are heavenly soft, with a pleasant springiness that can handle extra drippings or toppings without becoming soggy. Their perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors makes them a top choice for your chili cheese coney.

Remember, the right hot dog bun can make or break your Sonic extra-long chili cheese coney experience. Choose wisely, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Selecting the best franks

The frankfurter is the star of the show in a Chili Cheese Coney, so selecting the right type is essential. There are a few key considerations when choosing your frankfurters:

Meat Type

The most common types of meat used in frankfurters are beef and chicken. Beef franks will give you that classic, juicy hot dog taste. They should be well-seasoned with a prominent garlic flavour, but not overwhelmed by spices. Chicken franks are a good alternative if you're looking for something lower in fat without sacrificing taste. They often have a smoky flavour that sets them apart from regular hot dogs.

Casing

The casing of a frankfurter is important for creating the right texture. If you're going for the traditional option, the casing should have a snap to it when you bite into it, but it shouldn't be tough. Skinless franks will have a softer texture.

Size

For an extra-long coney, you'll want to choose larger-sized franks. Jumbo franks are a good option and will give you that satisfying, hearty bite.

Organic and Health Options

If you're conscious about health, there are organic and reduced-fat frankfurter options available. Organic franks are often made without preservatives and can be more expensive. Reduced-fat options might be worth considering, but keep in mind that they may not taste as good as the regular versions.

Brand Recommendations

When it comes to brand recommendations, there are a few that stand out:

• Hebrew National Beef Franks
• Sabrett Beef Frankfurters
• Joe and Franks Beef Franks
• Nathan’s Famous Beef Franks
• Oscar Mayer XXL Premium Beef Franks
• Bobak’s Chicago Style Beef Wieners
• The Deli Classic Frankfurters
• Bavarian Frankfurters

These brands offer a variety of beef and chicken franks that are well-reviewed and sure to elevate your Chili Cheese Coney.

Making the perfect chilli

The key to making the perfect chilli for your Sonic extra-long chilli cheese coney is to ensure it is tight and dense in texture. This is because the chilli needs to stay on top of the hot dog, rather than dripping off. The following process will guide you through making the perfect chilli for your coney.

Firstly, you will need to gather your ingredients. For the chilli, you will need ground turkey, crushed tomatoes, Sriracha ketchup, chilli powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. You can substitute the ground turkey for ground beef or chicken if you prefer. You will also need franks (all-beef, turkey, or pork), hot dog buns, vegetable oil, a sweet onion, and grated cheddar cheese.

Begin by sautéing the onions in vegetable oil over a medium heat until they are golden. This should take around 20-25 minutes. While the onions are cooking, you can start on the chilli. In a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat. Once cooked, drain the fat and return the meat to the pot. Add the chilli powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the crushed tomatoes and ketchup. For a spicier version, you can add some sriracha hot sauce to taste. Gently simmer the chilli for 15 minutes. If you prefer a looser consistency, you can add more crushed tomatoes. Keep in mind that thicker chilli works better for chilli cheese coneys.

Now it's time to assemble your coney. First, prepare your franks by searing them in a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over a medium-high heat. Roll them regularly to ensure an even sear all over. You can also toast your buns in a toaster oven or skillet coated with cooking spray. Place the sautéed onions on the bun, followed by the frank and a generous amount of chilli. Top with grated cheddar cheese and pop it under the grill until the cheese is melted.

And there you have it—the perfect chilli cheese coney! For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh, minced onion on top. This recipe is sure to impress, and the chilli can also be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Grilling the onions

First, slice a sweet onion into half-rings. The onion should be sliced thinly and uniformly to ensure even cooking. You will need one onion for every two hot dogs, as a generous amount is desired. Next, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. The oil should just coat the surface of the skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the sliced onions to the skillet. It is important to stir the onions frequently to prevent them from burning. The goal is to sauté the onions until they are golden in color, which should take around 20 to 25 minutes. This process brings out the natural sugars in the onions, giving them a sweet and slightly charred flavor.

While grilling the onions, feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Additionally, a teaspoon of butter can be added to the skillet for a richer flavor. Grilled onions are a key component of the Sonic extra-long chili cheese coney, providing a savory base layer for the other toppings. The slight crispness of the grilled onions also adds a satisfying texture contrast to the soft bun and melted cheese.

Once the onions are grilled to a golden brown, they are ready to be assembled onto the hot dog. Place a layer of onions on top of the bun, followed by the frankfurter and other desired toppings. The grilled onions will provide a delicious foundation for the chili and cheese, enhancing the overall taste experience. For added convenience, the onions can be grilled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. This makes assembling the chili cheese coneys even easier when it's time to serve them.

Cheese selection and melting

When it comes to cheese selection for your Sonic extra-long chili cheese coney, the classic choice is shredded cheddar cheese. Cheddar cheese is a popular option for coney dogs and can be found in many regional variations, including the Cincinnati Cheese Coney and the Skyline Chili Cheese Coney. You can use mild, sharp, or extra sharp cheddar, depending on your preference for sharpness and tanginess.

Other cheese options that can work well with coney dogs include Colby-Jack, a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheese, which offers a creamy and mild flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also try an Extreme Habanero & Cheddar blend to add some heat to your coney. This blend can be a great choice if you want to give your hot dog a spicy kick.

Once you've selected your cheese, it's important to note that coney dogs are typically not served with melted cheese. The shredded cheese is piled high on top of the other ingredients, adding a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor. However, if you prefer melted cheese, you can place the assembled coney dog under a broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese, or cover it with foil and bake it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes. This will result in a gooey, melted cheese topping that blends perfectly with the other flavors.

Remember, the beauty of making your own Sonic extra-long chili cheese coney is that you can customize it to your taste. Experiment with different types of cheese and melting techniques to find your perfect combination. Enjoy crafting your ultimate chili cheese coney!

Frequently asked questions