Sabrett Onion Sauce Recipe

Sabrett Onion Sauce Recipe: If you’ve ever visited New York City and grabbed a hot dog from a street vendor, chances are you’ve tasted the legendary Sabrett onion sauce. It’s that sweet, tangy, tomato-based topping piled high on an all-beef hot dog that instantly transports you to the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple.

This article is your go-to guide for recreating the authentic sabrett onion sauce recipe at home. Whether you’re trying to relive that NYC flavor or simply looking to add something special to your next backyard cookout, this recipe brings bold, nostalgic flavor straight from the cart to your kitchen. We’ll cover everything ; from the exact ingredients and steps, to storage tips, serving ideas, and even variations to spice things up.

Let’s dive in and learn how to make the perfect sabrett onion sauce recipe from scratch.

What Is Sabrett Onion Sauce?

Sabrett onion sauce is a classic New York-style hot dog topping made from sliced onions simmered in a tomato-based sauce. It’s slightly sweet, a little tangy, soft in texture, and loaded with flavor.

Sabrett is a brand best known for its all-beef hot dogs, often sold from carts in NYC. Their signature onion sauce is just as iconic as the franks themselves. It’s what gives those hot dogs their distinct flavor ; bold, sweet, and a little zesty.

Unlike mustard, relish, or sauerkraut, sabrett onion sauce is rich and savory with a deep tomato-onion flavor. It’s perfect for those who want something a little more substantial on their dog.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the authentic sabrett onion sauce recipe, you’ll need basic pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here’s everything required to get that classic NYC flavor:

• Yellow onions (about 2 pounds)
• Vegetable oil
• Tomato paste
• Ketchup
• Water
• Brown sugar
• White vinegar
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

The key is to use yellow onions because they become sweet and flavorful when cooked down. Tomato paste adds richness, while ketchup brings sweetness and tang. The vinegar balances everything, and the brown sugar adds depth.

How to Make Sabrett Onion Sauce (Step-by-Step Instructions)

This sabrett onion sauce recipe is simple to follow and comes together in about 30 to 40 minutes. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Slice and Sauté the Onions

Start by thinly slicing your onions. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat and add the onions. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become soft and translucent. You can cook them longer for more caramelized flavor, but don’t let them brown too much.

Step 2: Add the Tomato Base and Spices

Next, stir in the tomato paste and ketchup. Add water to help create the saucy texture. Then, mix in brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and a pinch of cayenne if you want a bit of heat.

Step 3: Simmer Slowly

Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This gives the onions time to absorb all the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water. If it’s too thin, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Once the sauce is thick and flavorful, remove it from the heat. Let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Tips for the Best Sabrett Onion Sauce Recipe

Want to take your sauce to the next level? Here are some insider tips:

Let the sauce sit for a few hours (or overnight) before serving. It gets even better with time.

Use fresh yellow onions for the best flavor.

Let the onions cook slowly ; don’t rush this step.

Simmer the sauce uncovered to help it thicken naturally.

Don’t overdo the sugar ; just enough to balance the acidity.

How to Serve Sabrett Onion Sauce

This sauce was made for hot dogs, but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy it.

Here are some great serving ideas:

• Piled high on classic grilled hot dogs
• As a topping for burgers or sausage sandwiches
• On a bed of french fries or cheese fries
• As a dip for onion rings or mozzarella sticks
• Stirred into baked beans or chili for extra flavor

For the true NYC hot dog experience, serve with spicy brown mustard and a steamed bun.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

After making your sabrett onion sauce, you’ll likely have leftovers ; and that’s a good thing!

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply warm the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a small splash of water to loosen it up.

How Sabrett Onion Sauce Compares to Other Hot Dog Toppings

There are many ways to top a hot dog, but Sabrett onion sauce is in a league of its own. Here’s how it stacks up against the competition:

• Mustard: Classic, sharp, and tangy, but lacks the depth of onion sauce.
• Ketchup: Sweet and simple but doesn’t offer the savory balance.
• Sauerkraut: Tangy and crunchy, but not as rich or sweet.
• Relish: Sweet and pickled, more crunchy than savory.
• Chili: Hearty and meaty, but heavier and more complex.

Sabrett onion sauce stands out because of its unique combination of sweetness, acidity, and soft texture. It’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without ketchup?
Yes, you can replace ketchup with additional tomato paste and a little extra sugar and vinegar. However, ketchup adds a nice balance of sweetness and acidity, so it’s recommended for the best flavor.

Is Sabrett onion sauce spicy?
Traditionally, it’s not spicy. The flavor is mild and sweet, with a gentle tang. You can make it spicier by adding cayenne or hot sauce.

Can I use other types of onions?
You can, but yellow onions are the best choice. White onions are sharper, and red onions can turn the sauce a strange color and alter the flavor.

Can I can or preserve this sauce?
While you can freeze it, home canning requires specific methods and sterilization. Stick to refrigeration or freezing unless you’re experienced with canning.

Where to Find Sabrett Hot Dogs and How to Cook Them

If you want the full NYC experience, you need Sabrett hot dogs too. You can find them in many supermarkets, especially in the Northeast. They’re also available online through grocery delivery services or specialty food stores.

To cook:

• Boil: Drop into simmering water for 5–7 minutes.
• Steam: Place in a steamer basket over boiling water until heated.
• Grill: Cook over medium heat for a smoky flavor and crispy skin.

Serve in a soft bun with mustard and a generous scoop of sabrett onion sauce.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

Want to make the sabrett onion sauce recipe your own? Here are some fun ways to experiment:

Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for more complexity.

Add a few tablespoons of beer while simmering for a richer flavor.

Swap out brown sugar for honey or maple syrup.

Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.

Mix in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for an extra tangy hit.

Case Study: Bringing New York Flavor to the Midwest

Let’s hear from Rachel, a home cook in Chicago, who tried this sabrett onion sauce recipe for her family’s summer BBQ.

“I grew up in New Jersey and always missed the classic NYC hot dogs. I tried this recipe, and it blew my mind. My husband couldn’t stop eating them. We’ve now made a tradition of ‘New York Night’ once a month with Sabrett franks, this onion sauce, and spicy mustard.”

Rachel’s tip? “Let it sit overnight. The sauce gets even better the next day!”

Final Thoughts

The Sabrett onion sauce recipe isn’t just a condiment ; it’s a connection to New York City’s street food history. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little time, you can recreate this unforgettable flavor at home.

Whether you’re hosting a cookout, feeding a crowd, or simply treating yourself to a nostalgic bite, this sauce is a must-try.

Give it a go — and bring a taste of the city that never sleeps to your next meal.

Sabrett Onion Sauce Recipe – NYC Hot Dog Cart Style

This Sabrett onion sauce recipe is a spot-on replica of the iconic New York City hot dog topping. Made with caramelized onions simmered in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, this condiment is essential for recreating the classic street-cart hot dog experience at home. It’s easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and is perfect for hot dogs, burgers, fries, and more.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Sauce

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 70 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl (optional)
• Jar or airtight container for storage

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds yellow onions thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 cup water more if needed
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional, for thickening

Instructions

 

• Sauté the Onions: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent. Let them caramelize slightly, but don’t let them brown too much.
• Add the Base & Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste and ketchup. Pour in the water, followed by the brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), and salt. Mix everything well.
• Simmer Slowly: Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The onions should be tender, and the sauce should thicken slightly.
• Optional Thickening: If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it in. Simmer for 3–5 more minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
• Cool and Store: Remove from heat. Let the sauce cool for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a glass jar or container. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

• For Best Flavor: Let the sauce sit overnight in the fridge before serving — the flavors deepen beautifully.
• Milder Option: Omit the cayenne pepper if you prefer a non-spicy version.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve on Sabrett hot dogs with spicy brown mustard in a steamed bun. Also great on burgers, sausages, or even fries.
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