Chicago Style Hot Dogs
There’s something undeniably special about a summer day spent outdoors, and for me, nothing symbolizes that experience quite like Chicago Style Hot Dogs. The sun is shining, the grill is fired up, and the delightful aroma of steaming hot dogs fills the air. Growing up, I remember my family gathering around the picnic table, laughter echoing as we assembled our hot dogs just the way we liked them. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a perfect combination of ingredients that created a symphony on our taste buds. I can still hear my uncle boasting about his secret ingredient—celery salt—and how it makes all the difference. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory, a tradition that brings joy and connection.
For anyone who loves a good hot dog, Chicago Style Hot Dogs is the epitome of summertime bliss. They’re not just any hot dogs; they’re an experience, a festival of flavors that transports you straight to the heart of Chicago. Toppings like sweet pickle relish, tangy mustard, and fresh onions come together to create a masterpiece that’s both classic and comforting. With each bite, you can taste the love and nostalgia wrapped inside those fluffy poppy seed buns. So let’s dive into this recipe together and recreate those joyful moments!
Recipe Snapshot
10 mins
5 mins
5 mins
Medium
250 kcal
10 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
11 g
Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Skillet
The Beauty of This Chicago Style Hot Dogs
1. Authentic Chicago Flavors
When you make Chicago Style Hot Dogs, you’re engaging in a culinary tradition that has its roots in the Windy City. Every ingredient has its part to play—like the sweet pickle relish, which gives a pop of color and sweetness, and the sport peppers that add just the right amount of heat. This harmony of textures and flavors creates an authentic taste experience that’s hard to replicate.
2. Customizable to Your Taste
While there are traditional toppings, the beauty of Chicago Style Hot Dogs is that you can customize them to your liking. Add extra toppings such as jalapeños for heat or even a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a kick. You can make each hot dog uniquely yours while still keeping the classic essence!
3. Perfect for Gatherings
These hot dogs are great for gatherings. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, game day, or a casual family get-together, serving Chicago Style Hot Dogs creates a relaxed and festive atmosphere. Guests can build their own with a variety of toppings, making it a fun interactive experience.
4. Quick and Easy Preparation
Another reason I adore Chicago Style Hot Dogs is their simplicity. They require minimal prep time, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The straightforward cooking process—steaming the hot dogs and buns—ensures that you can whip these up in no time.
5. Kid-Friendly Appeal
Kids love hot dogs! By making Chicago Style Hot Dogs, you’re not just feeding them a meal; you’re giving them an experience. The colorful toppings are visually appealing, and assembling their own hot dog allows them to have a hand in the meal, making it even more enjoyable.
6. A Flavorful Meal Any Time
While often enjoyed during summer, Chicago Style Hot Dogs can be savored year-round. Serve them during the winter months to bring some warmth to your dinner table or as a comfort food option during cooler days. They’re versatile and can suit any occasion!
Chicago Style Hot Dogs Ingredients
Great flavors start with the right ingredients, and for Chicago Style Hot Dogs, each component plays an essential role. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy ingredients creates a delightful balance that makes these hot dogs stand out. You’ll find that using high-quality ingredients truly enhances the final dish.
- 4 beef hot dogs – These are the stars of the show. Choose your favorite brand for the best flavor.
- 4 poppy seed hot dog buns – The perfect accompaniment, adding a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Yellow mustard – A classic condiment that adds a tangy kick.
- Sweet pickle relish – Gives a sweet contrast to the savory hot dog.
- 1 small white onion – Finely chopped, it adds a fresh, sharp bite.
- 1 tomato – Halved and sliced, it provides juiciness and freshness.
- 4 dill pickle spears – A crunchy, tangy contrast to the hot dog.
- Sport peppers – Adds a spicy kick; you can also use Pepperoncini if desired.
- Celery salt – A seasoning that ties all the flavors together with its unique taste.
Step by Step Guide for Chicago Style Hot Dogs
Creating Chicago Style Hot Dogs is an easy and enjoyable process that brings together simple techniques and fresh ingredients. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Add half an inch of water to a skillet. You’ll want to cover it and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. The water is essential for steaming the hot dogs, so ensure it’s well heated before adding.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the beef hot dogs to the skillet. Cover the skillet to trap the steam and allow the hot dogs to steam for two minutes. This method keeps the hot dogs juicy.
- After two minutes, turn the hot dogs over, cover again, and continue steaming for about two more minutes until they are thoroughly cooked. You want them to be plump and heated through, so keep an eye on them.
- Once cooked, remove the hot dogs from the skillet and set them aside. They should be hot and flavorful, ready to be placed in the buns.
- Next, take a steamer basket and place it into the skillet with the still-hot water. This step allows the buns to get warm without getting soggy.
- Place the poppy seed hot dog buns on top of the steamer basket. Cover and steam them for 20 to 30 seconds until warm. The goal is to soften the buns while retaining their texture.
- Now comes the fun part—assembly! Take each warm bun and place a hot dog inside. Start topping them with yellow mustard and sweet pickle relish to your liking.
- Next, add the small diced onion for a sharp flavor contrast. Don’t be shy about how much you add; it’s all about your preference!
- On one side of each hot dog, place slices of tomato, and on the other side, add a dill pickle spear. This combination not only looks great but also enhances the texture.
- Finally, finish off by topping with sport peppers and a sprinkle of celery salt. This final touch elevates your Chicago Style Hot Dogs to perfection!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use a thermometer: Make sure the hot dogs reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
- Steaming technique: Steaming instead of boiling keeps the hot dogs juicy and prevents them from bursting.
- Ingredient quality matters: Choose high-quality hot dogs and fresh toppings to maximize flavor.
- Assembly order: Assemble the hot dogs in a specific order for the best flavor experience—start with the hot dog, add sauces, then toppings.
Ways to Customize
Customization is key when it comes to making Chicago Style Hot Dogs. Here are some ways to make this classic dish your own:
- Switch up the meat: While beef is traditional, try turkey or veggie hot dogs for a different twist.
- Experiment with sauces: Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce or even sriracha for those who love a spicy kick.
- Go regional: Incorporate toppings from your area—like chili or cheese—if you want to put a local spin on your dogs.
- Make it a platter: Serve the hot dogs with a variety of toppings on the side, allowing guests to create their own masterpiece.
- Try different buns: Use different types of buns, such as brioche or pretzel buns, for a unique take on this classic dish.
Serve This Chicago Style Hot Dogs With
When enjoying Chicago Style Hot Dogs, think about what to serve alongside them to create a satisfying meal. Here are some ideas to complement your hot dogs:
- Classic coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side that balances the richness of the hot dogs.
- Potato salad: Creamy potato salad pairs beautifully, ideal for summer gatherings.
- Grilled vegetables: Freshly grilled corn, zucchini, or peppers add a healthy and colorful touch to your meal.
- Chips: Serve with your favorite potato chips or tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy addition.
- Homemade fries: Crispy fries make an excellent side dish, perfect for dipping in ketchup.
- Fruit salad: A light and vibrant option to balance the meal and offer a refreshing finish.
- Soft drinks: Pair with a variety of soft drinks or homemade lemonades to keep things cool.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Chicago Style Hot Dogs are not just a meal; they evoke memories and joy that come from gathering with loved ones. Their unique toppings and fresh ingredients create an unforgettable flavor that you’ll crave again and again. So, gather your friends and family, and give this recipe a try! It’s a delightful way to celebrate summer or bring a taste of Chicago to your home any time of the year.
Chicago Style Hot Dogs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add half an inch of water to a skillet. You’ll want to cover it and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. The water is essential for steaming the hot dogs, so ensure it's well heated before adding.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the beef hot dogs to the skillet. Cover the skillet to trap the steam and allow the hot dogs to steam for two minutes. This method keeps the hot dogs juicy.
- After two minutes, turn the hot dogs over, cover again, and continue steaming for about two more minutes until they are thoroughly cooked. You want them to be plump and heated through, so keep an eye on them.
- Once cooked, remove the hot dogs from the skillet and set them aside. They should be hot and flavorful, ready to be placed in the buns.
- Next, take a steamer basket and place it into the skillet with the still-hot water. This step allows the buns to get warm without getting soggy.
- Place the poppy seed hot dog buns on top of the steamer basket. Cover and steam them for 20 to 30 seconds until warm. The goal is to soften the buns while retaining their texture.
- Now comes the fun part—assembly! Take each warm bun and place a hot dog inside. Start topping them with yellow mustard and sweet pickle relish to your liking.
- Next, add the small diced onion for a sharp flavor contrast. Don’t be shy about how much you add; it’s all about your preference!
- On one side of each hot dog, place slices of tomato, and on the other side, add a dill pickle spear. This combination not only looks great but also enhances the texture.
- Finally, finish off by topping with sport peppers and a sprinkle of celery salt. This final touch elevates your Chicago Style Hot Dogs to perfection!
Notes
- Beef hot dogs: Vienna is the traditionally used hot dog brand, but if unavailable you can substitute with other brands with natural casings, such as Sahlen’s, Wegman’s, or Hebrew National.
- Poppy seed buns: To steam microwave the buns, add water to a small bowl. Microwave for 1 minute. Wrap buns individually in damp towels. Microwave until warm, about 30 seconds. If poppy seed buns are unavailable in your area, you can make them yourself. Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Brush hot dog buns generously with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake until poppy seeds have set on buns, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Sweet relish: Traditionally this is a bright neon green Chicago-style relish. To substitute, add a couple drops of green dye to your sweet pickle relish.
- Sport peppers: A type of chili similar to Tabasco chilies, these light green pickled chilies are a classic spicy topping for Chicago-style hot dogs. Vienna brand is available on Amazon, or substitute Pepperoncini, if desired.
- Storage: Store leftovers covered in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
