Chicago-style hot dogs are hot dogs that you could mistake for a sandwich, since they are so loaded up with toppings. The first time I had one was on a trip to Chicago, where they won me over with their delicious combination of flavors. A savory all beef hot dog contrasts with sweet and tangy pickles and relish, flavorful tomatoes, sharp onions and slightly spicy mustard – and there should be no ketchup in sight. There are so many veggies piled onto the dog that you’ll almost feel like you’re eating health food – and that is a good reason to have a second round! I’ve got a neat tutorial that will walk you through all you need to know to Make Chicago-Style Hot Dogs At Home over at the Craftsy blog (it’s free!).
While the dogs are traditionally steamed or boiled, I always grill mine outside, since the summer is hot dog season at my house. As long as you avoid ketchup (but feel free to try my Homemade Ketchup to go with your side dishes and baked beans) , how you cook your dogs probably isn’t going to get you the side-eye from any other Chicago-style dog lovers!
What do you think?