Chicago Style Hot Dog
An iconic all-beef frankfurter nestled in a poppy seed bun, meticulously dressed with a vibrant array of toppings. This Chicago classic famously forgoes ketchup in favor of a 'dragged through the garden' experience.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 All-beef hot dogs (Vienna Beef recommended)(Look for high-quality, all-beef franks for the best flavor and snap.)
- 4 Poppy seed hot dog buns(Fresh, soft poppy seed buns are traditional.)
- for topping Yellow mustard(A classic, bright yellow mustard is key.)
- approx. 1/4 cup Sweet pickle relish(Choose a bright green, sweet relish. Neon green is traditional but optional.)
- 8 Sport peppers(These small, pickled green peppers add a mild heat and tang. Halve them if desired.)
- 4 Dill pickle spear(A crisp, dill pickle spear provides a refreshing crunch.)
- 8 Tomato wedges(Use ripe, firm tomatoes cut into wedges.)
- approx. 1/4 cup Chopped white onion(Finely chopped raw white onion adds a sharp bite.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the hot dogs: Bring a pot of water to a simmer (do not boil vigorously). Add the hot dogs and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and plump. Alternatively, you can grill them until nicely charred.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Warm the buns: While the hot dogs cook, gently steam the poppy seed buns. You can do this by placing them over the simmering water for 1-2 minutes until soft and warm, or by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Assemble the hot dogs: Place one hot dog into each warmed bun. Now, layer the toppings in the traditional Chicago order: Start with a squiggle of yellow mustard down the length of the dog. Next, add a generous spoonful of bright green relish. Place two sport peppers on one side of the dog. Nestle a dill pickle spear along the other side. Arrange two tomato wedges on top of the dog. Finally, sprinkle with finely chopped white onion.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Serve immediately. Remember, ketchup is strictly forbidden on a true Chicago-style hot dog!
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓NO KETCHUP EVER: This is the cardinal rule of Chicago hot dogs. Ketchup is considered an insult to the carefully curated toppings.
- ✓Sport peppers are essential for their unique tangy flavor and mild heat.
- ✓The 'dragged through the garden' refers to the abundance and variety of fresh vegetable toppings.
- ✓For an authentic snap, consider grilling the hot dogs until they have nice char marks.
- ✓Ensure your toppings are fresh and vibrant for the best taste and visual appeal.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- New York style (sauerkraut and spicy brown mustard)
- Coney Island style (chili, onions, and mustard)