What Goes With Hot Dogs

What Goes with Hot Dogs? The Ultimate Guide to Hot Dog Toppings and Sides

Hot dogs are a classic summertime staple, perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, and casual gatherings. While a simple hot dog with just a squirt of ketchup and mustard is delicious, the real fun comes in exploring the endless possibilities of hot dog toppings and sides. From traditional favorites to unique and creative combinations, there’s no shortage of ways to dress up your hot dog.In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of hot dog toppings and sides, covering everything from classic condiments to unexpected flavor pairings. Whether you’re a purist who sticks to the basics or an adventurous eater looking to try new things, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to take your hot dogs to the next level.

Classic Hot Dog Toppings

Let’s start with the essentials – the classic hot dog toppings that have stood the test of time:

1. Ketchup: A must-have for many hot dog lovers, ketchup adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory sausage.
2. Mustard: From classic yellow mustard to Dijon and spicy brown, mustard is a versatile topping that brings a zesty kick to hot dogs.
3. Relish: Sweet pickle relish is a popular choice, adding a crunchy texture and a touch of sweetness.
4. Onions: Whether raw, grilled, or caramelized, onions add flavor and crunch to hot dogs.
5. Sauerkraut: This fermented cabbage topping is a staple on New York-style hot dogs, providing a tangy and slightly sour flavor.
6. Chili: Hearty beef chili, vegetarian chili, or even white chicken chili – chili dogs are a delicious and filling option.
7. Cheese: Cheddar, American, Swiss, or even Cheez Whiz – cheese adds a creamy, melty element to hot dogs.

Regional Hot Dog Styles

Different regions of the United States have their own unique takes on hot dog toppings, reflecting local flavors and traditions:

1. Chicago-Style Hot Dogs: Topped with yellow mustard, neon green relish, chopped onions, tomato slices, a dill pickle spear, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun.
2. New York-Style Hot Dogs: Topped with sauerkraut and spicy brown mustard, often served on a steamed bun.
3. Sonoran-Style Hot Dogs: Wrapped in bacon and topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and a variety of sauces and condiments.
4. Cincinnati-Style Chili Dogs: Topped with Cincinnati-style chili (a Greek-inspired meat sauce), shredded cheddar cheese, and diced onions.
5. Detroit-Style Coney Dogs: Topped with a savory meat sauce, mustard, and diced onions.

Unique Hot Dog Toppings

If you’re feeling adventurous, try some of these unique and creative hot dog toppings:

1. Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch.
2. Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado provides a creamy contrast to the hot dog.
3. Pineapple: Grilled or fresh pineapple slices add a tropical twist to hot dogs.
4. Coleslaw: Tangy and crunchy coleslaw is a refreshing topping for hot dogs.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings a Mexican flair to hot dogs.
6. Kimchi: Spicy, fermented Korean cabbage adds a bold flavor to hot dogs.
7. Fried Onion Strings: Crispy fried onion strings provide a delightful crunch.
8. Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick to hot dogs.
9. Sour Cream: A dollop of cool, tangy sour cream balances out spicy toppings.
10. Crumbled Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add a smoky, salty flavor in every bite.

Hot Dog Sides

No hot dog feast is complete without some tasty sides to accompany your toppings. Here are some classic and creative side dish ideas:

1. Potato Salad: A creamy, tangy potato salad is a perfect pairing for hot dogs.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a classic side dish.
3. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is a crowd-pleasing side.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to hot dogs.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a summertime favorite.
6. Chips: Potato chips, tortilla chips, or even kettle-cooked chips provide a satisfying crunch.
7. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime is a delicious and unique side.
8. Deviled Eggs: Creamy, tangy deviled eggs are a classic picnic food.
9. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the savory hot dogs.
10. Pasta Salad: A colorful pasta salad with vegetables and a tangy dressing is a perfect side dish.

Tips for Building the Ultimate Hot Dog Bar

If you’re hosting a hot dog party, setting up a hot dog bar is a fun and interactive way to let your guests customize their own creations. Here are some tips for creating the ultimate hot dog bar:

1. Offer a variety of hot dog styles: Provide a mix of beef, turkey, and veggie hot dogs to accommodate different dietary preferences.
2. Provide a selection of buns: Offer a variety of bun options, such as classic hot dog buns, pretzel buns, and brioche buns.
3. Arrange toppings in small bowls: Place toppings in small bowls or ramekins for easy access and to prevent cross-contamination.
4. Label toppings: Use small cards or labels to identify each topping, making it easier for guests to navigate the bar.
5. Provide utensils: Make sure to have tongs, spoons, and small plates available for guests to easily assemble their hot dogs.
6. Offer a variety of condiments: In addition to the classic ketchup and mustard, provide a selection of unique condiments like sriracha, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce.
7. Include side dishes: Offer a selection of side dishes, such as potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans, to round out the meal.
8. Provide napkins and wet wipes: Don’t forget to have plenty of napkins and wet wipes on hand for easy cleanup.

Conclusion

Hot dogs are a versatile and delicious food that can be dressed up in countless ways. From classic condiments to unique toppings and sides, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer a simple hot dog with just a squirt of ketchup or a fully loaded creation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.So fire up the grill, gather your favorite toppings, and get ready to create some unforgettable hot dog masterpieces. Happy grilling!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use the same toppings for both hot dogs and hamburgers?
A1: While many toppings can be used for both hot dogs and hamburgers, such as cheese, onions, and pickles, some toppings work better with one or the other. For example, sauerkraut is more commonly used on hot dogs, while avocado is often paired with hamburgers.

Q2: How do I keep hot dogs warm for a hot dog bar?
A2: You can keep hot dogs warm by placing them in a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting or by using a chafing dish with a water bath. Alternatively, you can grill or cook the hot dogs just before serving and keep them warm in a covered dish or aluminum foil.

Q3: Can I make hot dog toppings ahead of time?
A3: Yes, many hot dog toppings can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This includes chili, coleslaw, relish, and even some unique toppings like guacamole and kimchi.

Q4: What’s the best way to cook hot dogs for a crowd?
A4: For large gatherings, cooking hot dogs in a large pot of simmering water or on a griddle or flat-top grill can be more efficient than grilling them individually. You can also use a hot dog roller or keep them warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish after cooking.

Q5: Can I use the same utensils for different toppings?
A5: To prevent cross-contamination, it’s best to use separate utensils for each topping, especially if you have guests with dietary restrictions or allergies. If using shared utensils, make sure to provide a clean spoon or tong for each topping.For more information on hot dog history and culture, you can refer to the Wikipedia page on Hot Dogs.