Homemade Chili Cheese Coneys

**Ingredients:**

**For the Chili:**

– 2 lbs ground chuck (80/20)

– ⅓ lb ground chorizo

– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste

– 4 cups water

– 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

– 1 large onion, minced (about 3 cups)

– 6 cloves garlic, minced

– 3 tablespoons chili powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

– ¾ teaspoon ground allspice

– ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

– 2 teaspoons kosher salt

– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

– ½ ounce unsweetened chocolate (optional)

**For the Coneys:**

– Footlong or regular hot dogs

– Hot dog buns

– Yellow mustard

– Chopped white onions

– Shredded cheddar cheese (from the block)

**Instructions:**

**Brown the Meat:**

– In a large skillet, brown the ground chuck and chorizo over medium heat until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

**Cook the Onions and Garlic:**

– In the same skillet, cook the minced onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

**Combine Meat and Spices:**

– Return the cooked meat to the skillet. Add chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.

**Add Tomatoes and Liquids:**

– Stir in the tomato paste and tomato sauce. Gradually add water until the desired consistency is reached. Season with kosher salt, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. If using, add the unsweetened chocolate for extra richness.

**Simmer the Chili:**

– Let the chili simmer over low heat for 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.

**Adjust Seasoning:**

– Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the chili is too thick, add more water until you reach the desired consistency.

**Cook the Hot Dogs:**

– While the chili is simmering, grill or cook the hot dogs according to your preference. Lightly toast the buns for added texture.

**Assemble the Coneys:**

– Place a cooked hot dog in each toasted bun. Spread a layer of yellow mustard on the hot dog. Spoon a generous amount of chili over the hot dog. Sprinkle with chopped onions and shredded cheddar cheese.