Chicago Style Hot Dog Recipe

Beef hot dogs: Classic all-beef hot dogs that are the star of this recipe.

Poppy seed hot dog buns: Soft buns with a sprinkle of poppy seeds, adding a unique texture.

Chopped onions: Freshly chopped onions for a bit of crunch and sharpness.

Tomato wedges: Juicy tomato slices that add freshness and color.

Pickle spears: Crisp dill pickle spears for a tangy bite.

Sport peppers: Small, spicy peppers that bring heat to the dish.

Yellow mustard: Classic yellow mustard for a tangy flavor.

Sweet pickle relish: Sweet and tangy relish that complements the other ingredients.

Celery salt: A seasoning that adds a distinctive flavor, essential for an authentic Chicago-style hot dog.

To achieve the perfect grill marks on your beef hot dogs, make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates lightly before placing the hot dogs on them. This will prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Rotate the hot dogs every couple of minutes to get those beautiful, charred lines. For the poppy seed buns, steaming them for about 2 minutes will make them soft and pliable, perfect for holding all the delicious toppings without falling apart.

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

• poppy seed hot dog buns - Substitute with whole wheat hot dog buns: Whole wheat buns add a nutty flavor and are a healthier alternative.

• chopped onions - Substitute with chopped shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be a good alternative if you want a less pungent taste.

• tomato wedges - Substitute with cherry tomato halves: Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and can add a burst of flavor.

• pickle spears - Substitute with cucumber spears: Fresh cucumber spears provide a similar crunch and can be a less tangy option.

• sport peppers - Substitute with jalapeño slices: Jalapeño slices offer a similar heat level and can be easier to find.

• yellow mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a more complex flavor and can add a gourmet touch.

• sweet pickle relish - Substitute with dill pickle relish: Dill pickle relish provides a tangier flavor and can be a good alternative if you prefer less sweetness.

• celery salt - Substitute with celery seed and sea salt: A mix of celery seed and sea salt can mimic the flavor of celery salt.

• Allow the beef hot dogs to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Wrap each hot dog individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped hot dogs in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will help to keep them from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
• Store the hot dogs in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
• To freeze, place the individually wrapped hot dogs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the hot dogs to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• Store the hot dogs in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the hot dogs by grilling, microwaving, or steaming until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain their juicy texture.
• For the poppy seed buns, store them in a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them.
• To freeze the buns, place them in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Store in the freezer for up to 1 month.
• Thaw the buns at room temperature or warm them in the oven wrapped in foil for a few minutes before serving.
• Store chopped onions and tomato wedges in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep pickle spears and sport peppers in their original jars in the refrigerator. They can last for several weeks.
• Yellow mustard and sweet pickle relish should be stored in their original containers in the refrigerator. They typically have a long shelf life.
• Celery salt should be kept in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and freshness.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each hot dog in aluminum foil to keep it moist. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place the hot dog on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on high for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure it's heated through.
• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the hot dogs in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method will give them a slightly crispy exterior.
• To reheat the poppy seed buns, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds until soft. Alternatively, you can steam them for about 1-2 minutes.
• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of water and cover with a lid. Place the hot dogs in the skillet and steam for about 5 minutes until heated through.
• For the toppings, such as chopped onions, tomato wedges, pickle spears, and sport peppers, it's best to add them fresh after reheating the hot dogs and buns. This ensures they retain their crispness and flavor.

• Grill: Used to cook the beef hot dogs evenly, giving them a nice char and smoky flavor.

• Tongs: Essential for turning the hot dogs on the grill without piercing them, ensuring they cook evenly.

• Steamer: Used to steam the poppy seed buns, making them soft and warm.

• Knife: Necessary for chopping onions and slicing tomatoes into wedges.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping onions and slicing tomatoes.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the chopped onions and tomato wedges accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, and celery salt precisely.

• Serving platter: Ideal for arranging and serving the assembled Chicago-style hot dogs.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the onions and tomato wedges in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Use pre-made relish: Opt for store-bought sweet pickle relish to save time on preparation.

Steam buns together: Steam all poppy seed buns at once by placing them in a steamer basket over boiling water.

Grill in batches: Grill multiple beef hot dogs at the same time to speed up the cooking process.

Assemble efficiently: Lay out all toppings like pickle spears, sport peppers, and yellow mustard in an assembly line for quick and easy topping.