Hotdogs

Okay, so I consider myself a foodie. I enjoy trying foods from all over the world. Even if I don’t like something, I am generally glad I at least tried it. One of my guilty pleasures has always been a good hotdog. When I was a kid, I would eat them often, much to the disgust of my family members, who found them grotesque.

There are numerous types of hotdogs out there, from the All-American to the New York style, the Chicago dog, the chili-cheese dog and many more. As you go throughout the various regions in the United States and even other parts of the world, you will find different types of hot dogs. For instance, in the Philippines, they have these red hotdogs that are sliced up and mixed in with their spaghetti sauce. It’s a local delicacy. 

The bottom line is that hotdogs are delicious, and a culinary staple in many parts of the world. Whether you are at a ballgame, a barbecue, in a restaurant, or just walking down the street, holding a hotdog in your hand with a cold beverage of your choice is true heaven. By the way, food trucks or stands will often have the best hotdogs. Now, go out there and eat your weiner! Yep, I said it.

Hotdogs can be prepared in a variety of ways. Some people will just microwave them, while others will boil them. I admit, I have never tried boiled hotdogs and don’t plan to anytime soon. They can also be steamed, or my personal favorite, grilled. I find that grilling locks in the flavor and makes them juicy, while also crispy. A hotdog with a crispy outer skin and a juicy center is exquisite! How do you prefer your hotdogs to be cooked?

Let’s talk about condiments. Depending on the region and types of hotdogs, the condiments will vary. For example, a Chicago dog is busier than a California interstate. On it, you will find chopped white onions, yellow mustard, a dill pickle spear, green sweet pickled relish, tomato wedges, some celery salt, and pickled sport peppers. I love a good Chicago dog and seek one out whenever I’m in the city. (Yes, I know they can be found in other places). You know what you won’t find on a Chicago dog? Good old ketchup. That’s right, if you put Ketchup on a Chicago dog, you will be getting some dirty looks, if not something worse.

Is ketchup allowed on other types of hotdogs? Technically, yes. You may see an All-American dog with some ketchup, along with mustard and relish. However, many connoisseurs of hotdogs frown upon the use of this condiment. They feel it takes away from the flavor of the tasty treat. I have moved away from ketchup as I’ve grown older, however, I will have it occasionally with certain types of hotdogs. Of course, I would never put it on a Chicago or chili cheese dog. That’s just disgusting. Does it bother me when others do it? Not at all. To each their own. I’ll eat my hotdogs my way, and you can eat yours however you please. Now, go out there and get your wiener!