master-cooks | Air Fry Your Hot Dogs In Ribbons For Easy DIY 'Bacon'

Air frying hot dogs into ribbons offers a creative twist on traditional hot dogs, transforming them into a crispy, bacon-like delight. Begin by selecting your favorite type of hot dog, opting for ones with a rich, meaty flavor for the best results. Slice the hot dogs into thin, lengthwise ribbons, which allows them to crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to around 375°F, ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for crispiness. Place the hot dog ribbons in the basket, ensuring they are spread out evenly and not overlapping. This arrangement helps achieve an even cook and maximizes the crispy texture. Cook the ribbons for about 5 to 7 minutes, monitoring their progress to prevent overcooking. The resulting hot dog ribbons emerge with a satisfying crunch and a smoky flavor reminiscent of bacon. These ribbons can be used as a unique topping for salads, sandwiches, or baked potatoes, offering a fun and creative alternative to traditional bacon. This method not only delivers a new texture and flavor but also provides a healthier option to enjoy the savory taste of bacon without using actual pork products.

Tips for air frying your hot ribbons and what to do with them

To recreate this dish, start with the finest store-bought hot dogs you can find, though experimenting with other pre-cooked sausages or links could be an exciting twist. For easier peeling and to enhance the crispy texture, you can freeze the franks for at least 30 minutes (up to two hours), but this step isn't strictly necessary. One TikToker even used a peeler on unfrozen hot dogs to create "hot dog jerky," achieving perfectly crisp results.

When preparing your hot dog "bacon," utilize the time it takes for your air fryer to preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to peel the hot dogs with a straight-edge vegetable peeler, running it along the entire length of the frank for a more bacon-like look. Before or after adding the pile of hot dog shavings to the air fryer, consider tossing them in a neutral oil with a high smoke point and any sauces you prefer to help them crisp up.

They'll be ready in about 10 minutes, but make sure to flip them at least twice during cooking for even results. Once the strips are delightfully crispy, serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or incorporate them into various dishes, like the air-fried hot dog ribbon-topped smash burger taco featured in another TikTok video. As you enjoy your creation, think about the next air fryer hacks that could revolutionize the foodie scene with each bite.

Air Fry Your Hot Dogs In Ribbons For Easy DIY 'Bacon'

Tips for air frying your hot ribbons and what to do with them

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