Want to add a little Asian fusion to your classic hot dog? This kimchi hot dog is the perfect mashup of a delicious air fryer frank, topped with tangy kimchi, creamy sauce, crunchy onions, and more, all for a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A kimchi hot dog combines the familiar comfort of a classic hot dog with the bold, tangy, spicy crunch of kimchi, creating a unique fusion that’s both satisfying and exciting! I cook my franks in the air fryer for a quick, easy, and delicious option (but your favorite method works too).
The fermented kimchi adds bright acidity and complexity, cutting through the richness of the hot dog and adding an umami flavor explosion.
It’s also a fun way to explore Korean-inspired street food flavors at home, making an everyday hot dog feel gourmet and adventurous! If you’re into trying more street foods, my Air Fryer Korean Corn Dogs are another great option!
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Ingredients Needed
- 4 hot dogs (I use all beef franks)
- 4 hot dog buns
- ¼ cup fermented kimchi, drained (or to taste)
- 2 Tbsp kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp gochujang or sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 green onion, sliced
- 1 Tbsp crispy garlic fried onions (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Any hot dogs you like are fine! You can use all beef, a mix, or substitute a veggie or fish based hot dog as well. Small sausages work great too!
- Use a kimchi you like. I enjoy this Ocean’s Halo, but I personally don’t like Cleveland Kitchen, so the brand you use can make a big difference! For a very spicy kimchi, you may want to cut down on the added gochujang if you’re spice averse
- If you don’t like kimchi at all, try coleslaw (preferably vinegar-based, but creamy works too) or sauerkraut! I recommend chopping your kimchi into small pieces if it’s large to make it easier to eat on a hot dog (the one I have here is pre-shredded which is perfect)
- All the other toppings are optional and customizable. You can adjust condiments and heat levels to your preference! Other good options are cheddar cheese, chopped raw onion, crushed peanuts, cilantro, sriracha mayo, or fried garlic!
Step By Step Instructions
- Place hot dogs in your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping after 3 minutes, until browned to your liking. Feel free to grill or pan fry your hot dogs instead if preferred
- Add the hot dogs to the buns, and top each with about 1 Tbsp of kimchi. If you want to heat your kimchi or want a toasted bun, return them to the air fryer and cook 2-3 minutes more
- Top with a drizzle of kewpie mayo and gochujang (you can mix them together if you want, but keeping them separate is better for controlling spice level), then sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and garlic fried onions. Enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Sides
- Crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or tater tots
- Korean-style potato salad or sesame cucumber salad
- Creamy Air Fryer Korean Corn Cheese or some chewy Air Fryer Tteokbokki
Drinks
- Cold beer (a light lager or IPA pairs well with the spice)
- Sparkling water with lime, or a crisp hard cider
- Korean soju cocktails for a fun fusion twist
Desserts
- Mochi ice cream or simple vanilla ice cream to cool off the heat
- Fresh fruit like pineapple or melon for a sweet contrast!
Recipe FAQs
What Is Kimchi Made Of?
Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made primarily from fermented vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage and Korean radish, seasoned with ingredients like garlic, ginger, chili pepper flakes (gochugaru), fish sauce, and scallions.
The fermentation process gives it its signature tangy, spicy, and umami-rich flavor.
Is Kimchi Good On A Hot Dog?
Yes! Kimchi adds a deliciously spicy, tangy crunch that pairs wonderfully with the savory, juicy flavor of hot dogs. It’s an awesome fusion topping because it cuts through the richness of the meat and adds a unique Korean twist.
Is Kimchi An Acquired Taste?
For many people, yes. Kimchi has a bold, fermented taste that’s tangy, slightly sour, and can be quite spicy, which might take some getting used to if you’re not familiar with fermented foods. However, once acquired, it’s a deeply satisfying and versatile flavor!
Tips For the Best Kimchi Dog
- Make sure to drain your kimchi well to prevent a soggy bun! I usually set it in a strainer while I’m preparing the rest
- This recipe was created using my Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Other air fryers (and brands of hot dogs) may vary slightly in terms of cooking time needed, so adjust as needed for your specific unit (or any other cooking method)
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover kimchi hot dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. It’s best to keep the kimchi and other toppings separate if possible to prevent the bun from getting soggy and to make reheating easier
- Reheating: Reheat the hot dogs (without the bun) in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, for 2-3 minutes at 350°F in the air fryer, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Lightly toast the buns separately, then add the kimchi and other toppings or condiments fresh for the best texture!
- Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze assembled kimchi hot dogs, but you can freeze cooked hot dogs and buns separately and add fresh kimchi and other toppings after reheating!
Final Thoughts
This kimchi hot dog is a delicious intersection where American and Korean food collide for one flavorful mashup! While you definitely won’t find it in a traditional collection of Korean recipes, this twist brings a savory umami bomb to classic cookout fare.
I love how customizable it is, by using different brands of kimchi and hot dogs, as well as different toppings. There’s sweet, spicy, crunchy, and everything you could want from a total flavor bomb!
Katie’s tip
Looking for more unique ways to enjoy classic barbecue fare? Check out all of my awesome Air Fryer Hot Dog Recipes for tons of creative and flavorful ideas!
Kimchi Hot Dog (Air Fryer)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 bun length hot dogs
- 4 hot dog buns
- ¼ cup fermented kimchi, drained (or to taste)
- 2 Tbsp kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp gochujang or sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 green onion (sliced)
- 1 Tbsp crispy garlic fried onions (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place hot dogs in your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer4 bun length hot dogs
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping after 3 minutes, until browned to your liking
- Add the hot dogs to the buns, and top each with about 1 Tbsp of kimchi. If you want to heat your kimchi or want a toasted bun, return them to the air fryer and cook 2-3 minutes more4 hot dog buns, ¼ cup fermented kimchi, drained
- Top with a drizzle of kewpie mayo and gochujang (you can mix them together if you want, but keeping them separate is better for controlling spice level), then sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and garlic fried onions. Enjoy!2 Tbsp kewpie mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp gochujang or sriracha, 1 green onion, 1 Tbsp crispy garlic fried onions, Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Notes
- Feel free to grill or pan fry your hot dogs instead if preferred
- Any type of hot dogs you like are fine! You can use all beef, a mix, or substitute a veggie or fish based hot dog as well. Small sausages work great too!
- Use a kimchi you like. I enjoy Ocean’s Halo, and personally don’t like Cleveland Kitchen, so the brand you use can make a big difference! For a very spicy kimchi, you may want to cut down on the added gochujang if you’re spice averse
- If you don’t like kimchi at all, try coleslaw (preferably vinegar-based, but creamy works too) or sauerkraut! I recommend chopping your kimchi into small pieces if it’s large to make it easier to eat on a hot dog (the one I have here is pre-shredded which is perfect)
- All the other toppings are optional and customizable. Adjust condiments and heat levels to your preference! Other good options are cheddar cheese, chopped raw onion, crushed peanuts, cilantro, sriracha mayo, or fried garlic!
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any sauces, toppings, or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
