1. Prepare the Hot Dogs (or Mozzarella Sticks)

Start by prepping your hot dogs or mozzarella sticks. If you’re using hot dogs, simply skewer them with the wooden sticks, leaving about 2-3 inches of the stick sticking out. If you’re using mozzarella cheese sticks, do the same—skewer them and set them aside.

2. Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture will form the base of your batter. Next, crack the egg into the bowl and add the sparkling water. Gently stir the ingredients together until they form a smooth batter. The sparkling water will give the batter its light, airy texture.

3. Coat the Hot Dogs

Now, it’s time to dip the hot dogs (or mozzarella sticks) into the batter. Hold the skewer and dip the hot dog or mozzarella stick into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. You can gently tap the skewer on the edge of the bowl to remove any excess batter, but keep the coating thick so you get that signature crispy crunch.

4. Roll in Panko Breadcrumbs

Once the hot dog is fully coated in batter, roll it in a plate of panko breadcrumbs. This will add the extra crunch to your corn dog. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs into the batter gently so they stick well. You want a thick, even coating to ensure that the corn dog fries up crispy and golden.

5. Fry the Corn Dogs

Heat oil in a deep pot or wok to about 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to submerge the corn dogs so they cook evenly. Carefully drop each corn dog into the hot oil, one at a time. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn them occasionally so that they fry evenly on all sides.

6. Drain the Corn Dogs

Once they’re golden brown, remove the corn dogs from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep the corn dogs crispy.

7. Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce

While the corn dogs are frying, it’s time to make the sweet and spicy sauce. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir until smooth. You can adjust the amount of sriracha based on how spicy you like it. Once everything is mixed, set the sauce aside for drizzling over the finished corn dogs.