What Goes On Hot Dogs: The Ultimate Guide to Toppings & More!
Ever wondered what truly elevates a simple hot dog to a culinary masterpiece? Beyond the snap of the casing and the savory meat, lies a world of toppings, condiments, and creative combinations. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the realm of “what goes on hot dogs,” exploring everything from classic pairings to unexpected flavor explosions. We’ll not only tell you what *can* go on a hot dog, but what *should*, based on flavor profiles, regional traditions, and expert opinions. Whether you’re a purist or an adventurous eater, prepare to expand your hot dog horizons.
The Classic Condiments: Hot Dog Essentials
No discussion of what goes on hot dogs is complete without acknowledging the classics. These are the toppings that have stood the test of time and remain staples at ballparks, backyard barbecues, and hot dog stands worldwide.
Mustard: The Tangy Foundation
Mustard is arguably the most popular hot dog condiment. Its tangy, slightly acidic flavor cuts through the richness of the hot dog, creating a balanced and satisfying bite. Yellow mustard is the most common choice, but other varieties like Dijon, spicy brown, and even whole-grain mustard can add unique dimensions.
Ketchup: Sweet and Familiar
Ketchup is another beloved classic, particularly among children. Its sweet and slightly tangy flavor provides a familiar comfort. However, some hot dog aficionados consider ketchup a culinary faux pas, arguing that its sweetness overpowers the flavor of the meat. This is a matter of personal preference, but it’s worth noting the debate.
Relish: A Crunchy, Tangy Delight
Relish adds both flavor and texture to a hot dog. Sweet relish, made from chopped pickles, peppers, and other vegetables, is the most common type. Dill relish offers a more savory alternative. Relish provides a refreshing crunch and a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the savory hot dog.
Onions: A Sharp and Pungent Kick
Chopped onions, whether raw, grilled, or caramelized, add a sharp and pungent kick to a hot dog. Raw onions offer a crisp bite and a strong flavor, while grilled or caramelized onions provide a sweeter, more mellow taste. The type of onion used can also make a difference, with red onions offering a milder flavor than yellow or white onions.
Regional Hot Dog Styles: A Culinary Tour
Beyond the basic condiments, regional hot dog styles showcase the incredible diversity of what goes on hot dogs across the United States and beyond. These styles often reflect local ingredients, culinary traditions, and unique flavor preferences.
The Chicago Dog: A Windy City Classic
The Chicago dog is perhaps the most iconic regional hot dog style. It’s a masterpiece of flavors and textures, featuring a Vienna Beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun, topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. No ketchup allowed!
The New York Dog: Simple and Satisfying
The New York dog is a more straightforward affair, typically featuring a Sabrett hot dog on a steamed bun, topped with mustard and onion sauce. The onion sauce is a key element, a sweet and savory concoction that adds a unique flavor dimension.
The Coney Dog: A Detroit Staple
The Coney dog, a Detroit staple, consists of a natural-casing hot dog on a steamed bun, topped with Coney chili (a loose, meat-based chili), chopped white onions, and yellow mustard. The chili is typically made with ground beef, spices, and a secret blend of ingredients.
The Sonoran Dog: A Southwestern Delight
Originating in Hermosillo, Mexico, and popular in Arizona, the Sonoran dog is a bacon-wrapped hot dog grilled to perfection and nestled in a bolillo-style bun. It’s then topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and jalapeño salsa. A truly decadent and flavorful experience.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Hot Dog Toppings
For those seeking to push the boundaries of what goes on hot dogs, the possibilities are endless. These creative toppings can transform a simple hot dog into a gourmet delight.
Cheese: A Melty, Savory Addition
Cheese adds a creamy, savory element to a hot dog. Cheddar, Swiss, provolone, and even nacho cheese sauce are all popular choices. Melted cheese is particularly delicious, creating a gooey, satisfying texture.
Chili: A Hearty and Flavorful Topping
Chili, whether homemade or store-bought, adds a hearty and flavorful topping to a hot dog. Choose a chili that complements the flavor of the hot dog, whether it’s a mild beef chili or a spicy vegetarian chili.
Sauerkraut: A Tangy and Fermented Delight
Sauerkraut, fermented cabbage, adds a tangy and slightly sour flavor to a hot dog. It’s a popular topping in many parts of the world, particularly in Germany and Eastern Europe.
Coleslaw: A Creamy and Crunchy Contrast
Coleslaw, a creamy salad made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise, provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the savory hot dog.
Pickled Vegetables: A Tangy and Crunchy Bite
Pickled vegetables, such as pickled onions, pickled peppers, and pickled cucumbers, add a tangy and crunchy bite to a hot dog. They provide a burst of acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat.
Avocado: A Creamy and Healthy Addition
Avocado, mashed or sliced, adds a creamy and healthy addition to a hot dog. Its mild flavor complements the savory hot dog, while its healthy fats provide a nutritional boost.
Fried Eggs: A Rich and Decadent Topping
A fried egg, whether sunny-side up or over-easy, adds a rich and decadent topping to a hot dog. The runny yolk creates a luscious sauce that coats the hot dog and bun.
Bacon: A Smoky and Savory Indulgence
Bacon, crispy and smoky, adds a layer of savory indulgence to a hot dog. It can be crumbled on top or wrapped around the hot dog before grilling or frying.
Hot Dog Buns: The Foundation of a Great Hot Dog
The bun is just as important as the toppings when it comes to what goes on hot dogs. A good bun should be soft, slightly sweet, and able to hold the hot dog and toppings without falling apart.
Standard Hot Dog Buns: A Reliable Choice
Standard hot dog buns are the most common type, typically made from enriched white bread. They’re soft, slightly sweet, and readily available in most grocery stores.
Poppy Seed Buns: A Chicago Favorite
Poppy seed buns, sprinkled with poppy seeds on top, are a Chicago favorite. They add a slightly nutty flavor and a visual appeal to the hot dog.
Pretzel Buns: A Savory Alternative
Pretzel buns, made from pretzel dough, offer a savory and slightly chewy alternative to standard hot dog buns. They pair well with mustard and other savory toppings.
Brioche Buns: A Rich and Buttery Option
Brioche buns, made with butter and eggs, are a rich and buttery option that adds a touch of luxury to a hot dog. They pair well with both sweet and savory toppings.
The Art of Hot Dog Assembly: Tips and Techniques
Assembling a hot dog is an art form. Here are some tips and techniques to ensure your hot dog is a masterpiece:
- Warm the bun: Steaming or toasting the bun adds flavor and texture.
- Layer the toppings: Start with the condiments that need to be closest to the dog, then add the bulkier toppings.
- Don’t overfill: Too many toppings can make the hot dog difficult to eat.
- Use a hot dog holder: A hot dog holder can help keep the hot dog and toppings in place.
Q&A: Your Hot Dog Questions Answered
1. What’s the best way to cook a hot dog?
There are several ways to cook a hot dog, each with its own advantages. Grilling provides a smoky flavor, boiling is quick and easy, pan-frying creates a crispy exterior, and microwaving is the fastest option. Ultimately, the best method depends on your personal preference.
2. What’s the deal with ketchup on hot dogs?
The use of ketchup on hot dogs is a controversial topic. Some hot dog purists believe that ketchup’s sweetness overpowers the flavor of the meat, while others enjoy its familiar taste. It’s a matter of personal preference, but be prepared for some strong opinions if you choose to use ketchup!
3. What are some good vegetarian hot dog toppings?
Many of the toppings mentioned above are suitable for vegetarian hot dogs, including mustard, relish, onions, sauerkraut, coleslaw, pickled vegetables, avocado, and chili (vegetarian version, of course!).
4. Can I freeze hot dogs?
Yes, you can freeze hot dogs. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
5. What’s the best type of mustard for a hot dog?
Yellow mustard is the most common choice, but other varieties like Dijon, spicy brown, and whole-grain mustard can add unique dimensions. Experiment to find your favorite!
6. How do I prevent my hot dog bun from getting soggy?
To prevent a soggy bun, avoid overfilling the hot dog with wet toppings. You can also toast the bun lightly to create a barrier against moisture.
7. What’s the difference between a hot dog and a frankfurter?
The terms “hot dog” and “frankfurter” are often used interchangeably. However, a frankfurter typically refers to a specific type of hot dog made with pork and beef.
8. What are some unusual hot dog toppings?
Some unusual hot dog toppings include peanut butter, jelly, mac and cheese, and even pineapple. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment!
9. How can I make my own hot dog relish?
Making your own hot dog relish is easy! Simply chop up your favorite vegetables (such as pickles, peppers, and onions), combine them with vinegar, sugar, and spices, and let them simmer until softened.
10. Are there any health benefits to eating hot dogs?
Hot dogs are not typically considered a health food. They are often high in sodium, fat, and processed ingredients. However, they can provide some protein and essential nutrients.
Conclusion: The Endless Possibilities of What Goes On Hot Dogs
The world of what goes on hot dogs is vast and ever-evolving. From classic condiments to creative toppings, there’s a hot dog combination to suit every taste. Whether you’re a purist or an adventurous eater, don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own perfect hot dog creation. In our experience, the best hot dog is the one you enjoy the most. Share your favorite hot dog combinations in the comments below! Or, if you’re ready to take your hot dog game to the next level, explore our advanced guide to gourmet hot dog recipes.
