Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A classic hot dog served on a poppy seed bun with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers and a dash of celery salt.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Portillo’s
The Chicago-style hot dog evolved from the simple hot dog stands that popped up during the Great Depression, offering inexpensive meals to working-class individuals. German immigrants brought their sausage-making expertise, and the toppings were added over time, influenced by diverse culinary traditions to create a unique Chicago experience.
The Chicago-style hot dog is more than just a meal; it's a cultural icon, deeply ingrained in the city's identity and a point of pride for Chicagoans.
No Ketchup!
The most sacred rule of the Chicago-style hot dog is 'NO KETCHUP.' It's considered a culinary sin and an insult to the delicate balance of flavors. Asking for ketchup will likely elicit a strong reaction from locals.
A Chicago Staple
Hot dog stands are ubiquitous in Chicago, serving as local gathering spots and quick lunch options. The Chicago-style dog is a common sight at baseball games, festivals, and street fairs.
The Dragged Through the Garden Experience
The saying "dragged through the garden" refers to the abundance of fresh vegetables used as toppings. It symbolizes the commitment to quality ingredients and the abundance of flavors in the Chicago-style hot dog.
The Chicago-style hot dog is a symphony of flavors, blending savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy elements into a single, satisfying bite.
The all-beef hot dog provides a savory base, complemented by the sharp tang of yellow mustard and the mild bite of chopped white onions. The bright green sweet pickle relish offers a burst of sweetness, while the dill pickle spear contributes a refreshing sourness. Tomato slices add a juicy sweetness, and pickled sport peppers deliver a spicy kick. Finally, a dash of celery salt enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle, savory-herbal note.
Find an Authentic Stand
Seek out established hot dog stands or restaurants known for their authentic Chicago-style dogs. Look for places that use high-quality Vienna Beef hot dogs.
Embrace the Mess
A properly made Chicago-style hot dog is inevitably messy. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty and enjoy the explosion of flavors.
Trust the Vendor
Let the vendor assemble the hot dog according to tradition. They know the proper order and proportions of toppings for the best taste.
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