I have had a few words to say about the massive coney island or chili dog infatuation that exists in Ohio, particularly between two rival chains, Skyline and Gold Star. In the past I tried out Skyline’s dry spice packet and found the results ultra satisfactory. (I think the dry packet is from Skyline, even tho the brand is “Skytime” and the package is labeled “Cincinnati Style Chili.” Some disgruntled family member?)
Today I’m checking out Skyline’s frozen “Original Chili,” which can be microwaved or heated on the stove top.
Ingredients include: beef, water, tomato paste, yeast, corn starch, spices, salt, onion, garlic, paprika and natural flavors.
The chili is produced at Skyline’s own plant, (USDA est 1691) at 4180 Thunderbird Lane, in Fairfield, OH, which according to Google maps, appears to be in the image below. It’s important to me that a brand has control of its manufacturing, rather than contracting it out to someone else, which is very common today.
You can get the goods at grocers in about a dozen states, or order some of the products direct online. I’ve ordered the dry mix packages through Amazon. 24 packages for $37, which includes shipping. If you want the best results, follow the packet instructions precisely. The only variation I’ve done is to add more ground beef and simmered longer, just my preference for a very meaty, crumbly sauce.
This frozen pack is easy-peasy, five minutes in the microwave and you’re ready for your coney/chili dog. I love the flavor and the convenience. The main difference you’ll find between using the dry spice packets and this preparation, is like I previously said, I use more ground beef with the dry mix. Beef in the frozen version? Eh, not so much. Maybe less than 10% by volume? More reminiscent of the “hot dog sauces” of the deep south than of Detroit style coneys. In the pic below, of the sauce out of the microwave, but still in the tray, you can see a little oil slick, and to me, that’s ALWAYS a good sign for coney sauce. I used Old Wisconsin natural casing wieners, my current favorite.
Prepared them in the traditional coney style, with a squirt of yellow mustard, diced onion and sauce. ONLY. The serving instructions, for hot dogs, suggests 4 T of sauce per dog. Seems like a lot, but it’s up to you. I went with 2 T.
In any case, I will pick the product up again and keep one in the freezer, for lazy weekends.
Skyline Frozen Chili Review