Chicago Style Hot Dog Recipe

All-beef hot dogs: These are the main protein component, providing a rich and savory base for the toppings.

Poppy seed hot dog buns: These buns add a slight crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the hot dog.

Yellow mustard: A classic condiment that adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.

Sweet green pickle relish: This relish adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory hot dog.

Chopped onion: Provides a sharp, pungent flavor and a bit of crunch.

Tomato wedges: Adds freshness and a juicy texture to the hot dog.

Pickle spears: These add a crisp and tangy element that enhances the overall flavor.

Sport peppers: Small, spicy peppers that add a kick to the hot dog.

Celery salt: A unique seasoning that adds a subtle, savory flavor to the dish.

When preparing a Chicago-style hot dog, make sure to steam the poppy seed buns before assembling. This will ensure they are soft and warm, providing the perfect contrast to the grilled hot dogs. To steam the buns, you can place them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 1-2 minutes or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds. This small step can elevate the overall texture and flavor of your hot dog.

• all-beef hot dogs - Substitute with turkey hot dogs: Turkey hot dogs are a leaner alternative and can provide a similar texture and flavor.

• poppy seed hot dog buns - Substitute with whole wheat hot dog buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier option with more fiber while still holding the hot dog and toppings well.

• yellow mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a slightly different flavor profile but can still provide the tangy taste needed.

• sweet green pickle relish - Substitute with dill pickle relish: Dill pickle relish offers a more tangy and less sweet flavor, which can still complement the hot dog.

• chopped onion - Substitute with chopped shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can add a subtle sweetness to the dish.

• tomato wedges - Substitute with cherry tomato halves: Cherry tomatoes are smaller but can still provide the fresh, juicy burst of flavor.

• pickle spears - Substitute with cucumber spears: Fresh cucumber spears can offer a similar crunch and freshness without the pickling.

• sport peppers - Substitute with jalapeño slices: Jalapeño slices can provide a similar level of heat and crunch.

• celery salt - Substitute with sea salt with a pinch of celery seed: This combination can mimic the flavor of celery salt while using more common pantry ingredients.

• To keep your hot dogs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 3 days.
• If you want to extend their shelf life, wrap each hot dog individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a resealable freezer bag. This method will keep them fresh for up to 2 months.
• When you're ready to enjoy your Chicago style hot dogs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain the best texture and flavor.
• Reheat the hot dogs on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until they are heated through. This will help retain their original grilled flavor and texture.
• For the poppy seed buns, store them in a bread box or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• If you need to freeze the buns, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• To refresh the buns, thaw them at room temperature and then warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
• Store condiments like yellow mustard, sweet green pickle relish, and chopped onion in the refrigerator in their original containers. They typically have a long shelf life, but always check the expiration dates.
• For the tomato wedges, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• Pickle spears and sport peppers can be stored in their original jars in the refrigerator. They usually have a long shelf life due to their pickled nature.
• Keep celery salt in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for several months.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each hot dog in aluminum foil to keep them moist. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the hot dog on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure it's heated evenly.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of water to the pan and place the hot dog in the skillet. Cover with a lid and steam for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating.

• To reheat the poppy seed buns, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds, or place them in the oven for the last 5 minutes of heating the hot dogs.

• For a crispy bun, lightly butter the poppy seed buns and toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

• Reassemble your Chicago Style Hot Dog with fresh yellow mustard, sweet green pickle relish, chopped onion, tomato wedges, pickle spears, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt for that authentic taste.

• Grill: Used to cook the hot dogs until they are heated through and have grill marks.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the hot dogs on the grill to ensure they cook evenly.

• Knife: Essential for chopping the onion and slicing the tomato wedges.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and slicing the tomatoes.

• Serving platter: Useful for arranging the hot dogs and buns before adding the toppings.

• Spoon: Helps in adding mustard, relish, and chopped onion to the hot dogs.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures you add the correct amount of mustard, relish, and celery salt.

• Basting brush: Optional, but can be used to lightly brush the buns with butter before grilling them for added flavor.

Preheat the grill: Start preheating your grill while you prepare the other ingredients to save time.

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onions, slice the tomatoes, and have the pickle spears ready before you start grilling.

Use a timer: Set a timer for grilling the hot dogs to ensure they are cooked perfectly without needing constant attention.

Assemble efficiently: Line up your poppy seed buns and have all toppings within reach to quickly assemble each hot dog.

Serve immediately: Have plates ready so you can serve the Chicago-style hot dogs as soon as they are assembled.