How Long to Boil Hotdogs
The quickest and easiest way to prepare hot dogs is to boil them. This method allows you to control the amount of seasoning and adds a level of crispiness that you don’t get from grilling.
This is also a great option if you want to give your hot dogs a little extra flavor. Tossing in a clove of garlic while the water is boiling is an easy way to do this.
Preparation
Hot dogs can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, pan-frying, microwaving and boiling. Boiling is a quick, simple and economical method of cooking them that results in a plump and juicy product with a crisp and golden exterior.
Add water to a pot and bring it to a boil over medium high heat. It’s important to use enough water that the entire package of hot dogs is completely submerged in the liquid.
Some people like to add a pinch of bouillon in the water while it’s boiling. This can add flavor and make the hot dogs more tender. Try adding beef, chicken or vegetable bouillon for different flavors.
Some people also like to add a couple of unpeeled garlic cloves to the boiling water for an earthy and delicious flavor that’s a little different from traditional boiled hot dogs. However, you should always drain the boiling water before adding the garlic to avoid overcooking it and making it bitter.
Boiling
To boil hot dogs, you need to fill a pot with enough water to cover them. Then, bring the water to a rolling boil over medium/high heat.
Add a pinch of salt (optional) to the pot. This will enhance the flavor but will also help to prevent the hot dogs from sticking together.
Once the water reaches a boil, carefully drop the hot dogs into the pot. This can be done using tongs or with a slotted spoon. Once the hot dogs are in the pot, allow them to cook at a continuous boil for about four to six minutes.
It’s important to not over boil the hot dogs, as this will cause them to become mushy and less appealing in texture. Cooking the hot dogs for too long will also make their skins wrinkle up and shrink slightly in size. When they are fully cooked, the hot dogs should be plump in appearance with a crunchy outer texture.
Simmering
A pot: Large enough to hold the desired number of hot dogs and sufficient water to cover them. The pot should have a lid to keep out any excess steam.
Stove: A gas or electric stove will work. Water: Tap water will work just fine, but consider using a different flavor of water to add more taste to your finished hot dogs.
Tongs: Having a good pair of tongs will make it easier and safer to add and remove the hot dogs from the boiling water. A colander: You will need this to drain the hot dogs after they finish cooking.
If you want to add more flavor to your hot dogs try adding a little bouillon to the boiling water. The casings of hot dogs aren’t water tight so they can absorb the flavor of the stock. Beef or chicken bouillon is preferred, but vegetable bouillon can also be used if you prefer a more neutral flavor.
Draining
Boiling is one of the most popular ways to prepare hot dogs. However, it isn’t the only way. You can also cook them in a pressure cooker, slow cooker or even in your microwave. However, boiling is a classic method and gives you consistent results every time.
Once the cooking time is up, use a spoon or tongs to carefully remove the hot dogs from the pot. Put them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess water.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, try using a crockpot to boil several hot dogs at once. This will save you time and effort. Crockpots are also great for keeping your food warm after you finish cooking. Read more
