When it comes to different types of hot dogs, the Chicago dog definitely tops the list. This classic hot dog is known for being piled high with colorful veggie toppings and condiments that will shake up your taste buds. If you're looking to recreate this Windy City favorite in your commercial kitchen, we've got you covered with a step-by-step recipe for the beloved Chicago-style hot dog.
Shop Bulk Hot DogsChicago Dog Recipe
The toppings are what make a Chicago-style hot dog truly authentic. Make sure to add the ingredients in the order we have listed below and make no substitutions!
Yield: 1 serving
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 all-beef frank
- 1 poppy seed hot dog bun
- Yellow mustard
- Neon green relish
- Chopped onions
- Tomato slices
- Pickle spear
- Sport peppers
- Celery salt
Directions
- Boil or steam all-beef hot dog until heated through.
- Lightly toast poppy seed bun until warm.
- Place hot dog in bun and prepare to add toppings.
- Squeeze yellow mustard on one side of hot dog.
- Add neon green relish to other side of hot dog.
- Sprinkle handful of chopped onions over relish.
- Place two tomato slices on top of onions.
- Add pickle spear along side of hot dog.
- Top everything off with sport peppers.
- Sprinkle a pinch of celery salt over everything.
Serve your Chicago-style hot dog with a side of crispy fries or potato chips for a classic American meal.
What Is Neon Green Relish?
Neon green relish is a vibrant, sweet, and tangy condiment that is typically made from finely diced cucumbers, high fructose corn syrup, vinegar, and seasonings. Its bright green hue is what sets it apart from traditional pickle relish, making it a signature topping on a Chicago-style hot dog.
What Are Sport Peppers?
Sport peppers are a type of chili pepper that is typically pickled in a vinegar brine, giving them a tangy and slightly sour taste. They are harvested when they are still green and are known for their medium level of heat, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their dishes. These peppers are a staple in Chicago-style cuisine, especially when it comes to hot dogs.
By adding a Chicago-style hot dog to your menu, you're not only offering a delicious and unique option for hot dog lovers, but you're also tapping into a regional favorite that has a loyal following. This classic dish is sure to be a hit with customers looking to try something different and indulge in a taste of Chicago right at your restaurant.
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Types of Sausage
Sausage can be found in countless forms across the globe. It is easy to prepare, relatively inexpensive, and lends itself to a wide range of uses. As a result, sausage is popular among people from various cultures and backgrounds. Whether you manage a butcher shop and want to expand your offerings or are looking to incorporate sausage into your restaurant menu, it's essential to understand the different types of sausage and what sets them apart. Below, we've outlined some of the most popular types of sausage, where they come from, and what they are made of. Shop All Sausages Use these links to learn more about each type of sausage: 1. Chorizo 2. Kielbasa 3. Bratwurst 4. Andouille Sausage 5. Italian 6. Blood Sausage 7. Breakfast Sausage 1. Chorizo When looking to add a flavorful kick to your dishes, chorizo is an excellent choice. Its main ingredients include pork, smoked paprika, and garlic, although additional ingredients such as salt and various herbs can also be featured. Chorizo is traditionally stuffed into natural casings, contributing to its authentic texture and appearance. There are several forms available on the market, which can differ in size, thickness, and spiciness, allowing chefs to choose the perfect option for their culinary needs. Traditional chorizo is fermented, smoked, and cured, giving it a rich and robust flavor profile. Area of origin: Spain Made from: Pork 2. Kielbasa Kielbasa is a popular type of Polish sausage. The word kielbasa translates to sausage in Polish and is used in a general sense to refer to a wide range of sausage varieties. In English, kielbasa is a specific U-shaped sausage. The main meat used in crafting kielbasa is pork, and it is traditionally seasoned with a blend of garlic, marjoram, salt, and pepper. In North America, kielbasa is typically smoked, adding depth of flavor. It is a cornerstone of Polish cuisine, frequently featured in classic recipes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. Common ways to serve kielbasa include alongside sauerkraut, potatoes, and cabbage. Area of origin: Poland Made from: Pork, beef, lamb, or poultry 3. Bratwurst Bratwurst is a traditional German sausage with a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Renowned for its robust flavor and versatility, bratwurst is available in a wide array of regional varieties. The most common meat used for bratwurst is pork. Depending on the region and recipe, bratwurst can be seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices such as marjoram, coriander, nutmeg, ginger, and pepper, which come together to create its mild, herbal flavor. Bratwurst can be stuffed into either natural or artificial casings and is typically short and thick in size. Bratwurst is featured in a wide range of German dishes, as well as on Oktoberfest menus. Area of origin: Germany Made from: Pork, veal, or beef 4. Andouille Sausage Andouille sausage is a French sausage that has become synonymous with Cajun cuisine. Its origins can be traced back to Andouillette, France. Traditionally, French andouille sausage is seasoned with tripe, onions, and wine and boasts a sharp, smoky flavor. In contrast, Southern Andouille, also known as Cajun sausage, is popular in the United States. This version is flavored with garlic, peppers, onions, and wine, adding a spicy and robust taste. Southern Andouille is often used in dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, where its bold flavors can shine through. Area of origin: France Made from: Pork or veal 5. Italian Sausage Italian sausage is one of the most popular types of sausage. It comes in three main varieties: mild, spicy, and sweet. Each type is typically made from pork and seasoned with some blend of oregano, basil, and fennel seed. Mild Italian sausage is a versatile option perfect for those who prefer a more subtle flavor, featuring a savory taste without being overpowering. Spicy Italian sausage includes hot red pepper flakes and other spicy ingredients, providing a fiery kick to your dishes. Sweet Italian sausage, as the name suggests, has a sweeter flavor profile compared to its counterparts. Area of origin: Italy Made from: Pork 6. Blood Sausage Blood sausage is a unique type of sausage that comes in many forms based on regional tastes and preferences. This sausage has its roots in various culinary traditions, including Spanish, French, English, African, South American, and Thai cuisine. It is known for its savory and earthy flavor, with some describing it as having a hint of metallic taste. The key ingredient in blood sausage is blood, typically sourced from pigs, sheep, or cows. This blood gives the sausage its distinct dark color and adds to its rich and unique taste profile. Some popular regional varieties of blood sausage include Blood Pudding, which is native to England, Boudin Noir, which is popular in France, and Morcilla, which comes from South America and is featured in Asado. Area of origin: Europe, Africa Made from: Pork or beef 7. Breakfast Sausage Breakfast sausage is a beloved staple on many breakfast menus. Its roots can be traced back to English and American farmers who sought to make the most of their livestock before the season was over. Typically seasoned with pepper and sage, breakfast sausage boasts a comforting taste profile. Some varieties may include hints of maple syrup or bacon, adding a touch of sweetness or smokiness to the savory blend. Breakfast sausage is available in two primary forms: link and patty. The link form is perfect for traditional breakfast platters or as a side dish, while the patty form is ideal for making breakfast sandwiches or quick skillet meals. Area of origin: England, United States Made from: Pork Understanding the different types of sausage can help you curate the right menu and cater to the tastes of your guests. Each type of sausage is unique and brings a different flavor and texture to your dishes. Use the information in this blog to make educated ingredient purchasing decisions and craft delicious menu items that will leave your customers coming back for more.
Comparing Beer, Hot Dog, and Ticket Prices at Major League Baseball Parks
As Opening Day for baseball draws near, all eyes turn to hometown teams and the potential of watching them win a World Series championship. As you eagerly buy tickets to enjoy a game in the stadium, you can probably already taste savory hot dogs and ice-cold beer from your favorite concession stand. Unfortunately, ballparks were not immune to the rising prices of this past year, causing all-time highs for tickets and concessions. If you’re wondering how much it costs to go to a baseball game and enjoy a beer and a hot dog or two, look no further than our "Comparing Hot Dog and Beer Prices at Baseball Parks" infographic. We break down the cheapest and most expensive ballparks for the 2024 season. Ever wonder how much it costs to buy a beer at Fenway Park or a hot dog at Coors Field? We crunched the numbers for all thirty major league ballparks and compiled this illustrated guide for baseball lovers across the country. Which Ballparks Charge the Least (And the Most) for a Beer? Beer is a staple of sports stadiums, but some ballparks sell it for far cheaper than others. Below, we compiled the highest- and lowest-priced beers you can buy at baseball stadiums across the country. Cheapest Baseball Parks for Beer Once again, Coors Field holds its beer prices steady at $3 for one beer. Though the league average is $6.98, several ballparks price their beer well below this number. Check out this list of stadiums that sell beer for less than $5. Colorado Rockies (Coors Field): $3 Toronto Blue Jays (Rogers Centre): $4.44 Los Angeles Angels (Angel Stadium of Anaheim): $4.50 Arizona Diamondbacks (Chase Field): $4.99 Los Angeles Angels(Angel Stadium of Anaheim): $5 Minnesota Twins (Target Field): $4.99 Atlanta Braves (Truist Park): $4.99 Most Expensive Baseball Parks for Beer Nationals Park unseats Citi Field as the most expensive ballpark to buy a beer, raising their prices from last year by $5. Beer prices have skyrocketed this year, so you might want to wait and have a glass after the game to save some money. Check out the following ballparks that all charge more than $10 for beer. Washington Nationals (Nationals Park): $14.99 Baltimore Orioles (Oriole Park at Camden Yards): $10.99 Chicago White Sox (Guaranteed Rate Field): $10.50 Boston Red Sox (Fenway Park): $10.50 Chicago Cubs (Wrigley Field): $10.49 Fun Fact: An estimated 14.6 million beers (about 1.2 million gallons) are sold at major league stadiums every year. That’s enough to fill 1.7 Olympic-size swimming pools. Which Ballparks Charge the Least (And the Most) for a Hot Dog? Hot dogs are as fundamental to baseball games as throwing and catching, but it might not be worth the high cost this season. The league average has risen to $5.32, but some places still keep their hot dogs affordable. We’ve done the research for you and determined which ballparks charge the least and most for hot dogs so you can budget for the big game. Cheapest Baseball Parks for Hot Dogs Despite rising concession prices across baseball, many ballparks still offer inexpensive hot dogs to allow you to enjoy this gameday ritual without breaking the bank. Chase Field retains the honor of offering the cheapest hot dog with Yankee Stadium not far behind. Check out the stadiums that offer hot dogs for less than $4. Arizona Diamondbacks (Chase Field): $2.99 New York Yankees (Yankee Stadium): $3 Miami Marlins (LoanDepot Park): $3 Minnesota Twins (Target Field): $3.99 Atlanta Braves (Truist Park): $3.99 Most Expensive Baseball Parks for Hot Dogs If you’re looking to save some money in the stadium, you’re better off skipping the hot dog and sticking with peanuts and cracker jacks at these ballparks. Once again, Petco Park and Oracle Park top the list as the most expensive stadiums selling hot dogs. Check out this list of stadiums that offer hot dogs for $7 or more, which is higher than the league average price for beer. San Diego Padres (Petco Park): $7.75 San Francisco Giants (Oracle Park): $7.50 Washington Nationals (Nationals Park): $7 Colorado Rockies (Coors Field): $7 Texas Rangers (Globe Life Field): $7 New York Mets (Citi Field): $7 Fun Fact: An estimated 22 million hot dogs are sold yearly at major league ballparks. Lined up from end-to-end, that’s 3,100 miles, or about the distance from Boston to San Francisco. What’s the Total Amount You Would Spend at a Game? If you add up the cost of a ticket, a hot dog, and a beer, the total amount adds up very quickly. We calculated the total cost for three of the most affordable games compared to three of the most expensive stadiums to attend. Kansas City Royals (Kauffman Stadium) Ticket: $42 Beer: $5 Hot Dog: $4 Total = $51 The Kansas City Royals slide in as the team offering the cheapest gameday experience in 2024, allowing you to buy a ticket, beer, and hot dog for only $51. With prices well below the league average, Kauffman Stadium is well worth a visit. Cleveland Guardians (Progressive Field) Ticket: $50 Beer: $5 Hot Dog: $4.50 Total = $59.50 As the first Ohio team to make this list, the Cleveland Guardians provide a fun-filled day at an affordable price. This team has been hot in recent seasons with 8 winning seasons in the last 10 years and 5 playoff berths in the last 8 years. Cincinnati Reds (Great American Ball Park) Ticket: $52 Beer: $7.49 Hot Dog: $6.29 Total = $65.78 Not to be outdone by their cousins in east Ohio, the Cincinnati Reds manage to offer a relatively inexpensive trip to a ballgame despite their high concession prices. The on-field action with their dynamic roster should make skipping the concession stand easy. San Francisco Giants (Oracle Park) Ticket: $89 Beer: $9 Hot Dog: $7.50 Total = $105.50 Oracle Park is a gorgeous venue overlooking the San Francisco Bay, but their gameday prices are far less appealing. High concession prices are overshadowed by tickets nearing $90, making them a one-time stop on your ballpark tour. New York Yankees (Yankee Stadium) Ticket: $98 Beer: $6 Hot Dog: $3 Total = $107 Despite offering the third-cheapest baseball experience in 2023, watching a game and concessions at Yankee Stadium now costs over $100. Their streak of 31 winning seasons is little consolation for the high gameday cost, making them a team best enjoyed from your couch. Los Angeles Dodgers (Dodger Stadium) Ticket: $115 Beer: $7 Hot Dog: $6.50 Total = $128.50 After offering several record-breaking contracts in the off-season, the Los Angeles Dodgers raised their prices significantly to see these superstars live. With a total nearing $130, you should book tickets to watch the Dodgers play on the road. What’s the Average Attendance for All Teams? In-person attendance has grown steadily in the years after Covid-19, and the 2023 season hosted nearly 30,000 fans per game. We expect 2024 to be even more enjoyable, making ballparks crowded once again. Below, we've listed the average attendance for all baseball teams for the past three years. 2023 Average Attendance: 29,293 2022 Average Attendance: 26,808 2021 Average Attendance: 18,900 Fun Fact: The most expensive ticket ever sold went for $1.7 million in a 2016 showdown between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians (now Guardians). Sources: Hot Dog Prices at MLB Games in 2023 Beer Prices at MLB Games in 2023 Average Attendance in MLB by Year MLB Baseball Tickets
What Is Giardiniera?
Giardiniera, pronounced jar-din-air-a, is a popular Italian condiment known for its tangy and spicy flavor profile. This pickled relish typically consists of a mix of various vegetables such as bell peppers, celery, carrots, cauliflower, and hot peppers, all marinated in a blend of vinegar, oil, and seasonings. The word giardiniera translates to female gardener in Italian, reflecting the fresh and colorful assortment of vegetables used in this condiment. While the exact ingredients can vary based on regional preferences, giardiniera is commonly enjoyed as a topping or accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Whether used as a condiment, a garnish, or a standalone ingredient, giardiniera is a versatile staple in commercial kitchens that can help chefs create memorable and delicious culinary creations. Shop All Giardiniera Giardiniera Variations Giardiniera, a popular pickled vegetable mix, comes in a few different styles, each offering a unique twist on the traditional recipe. Italian-Style Giardiniera: Italian-style giardiniera typically includes a mix of cauliflower, carrots, celery, and bell peppers, all marinated in a blend of vinegar, oil, and seasonings. This classic version is a versatile condiment that can be used to add a tangy crunch to sandwiches, salads, and antipasto platters. Chicago-Style Giardiniera: Chicago-style giardiniera is a spicier version of the traditional Italian recipe, popular in the Chicago area. In addition to the standard mix of vegetables, Chicago-style giardiniera often includes serrano or banana peppers for an extra kick of heat. The ingredients are typically finely chopped in the Chicago variation and smeared on the city's famous Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago hot dogs. The heat level can be adjusted to suit different preferences, making it a favorite among fans of bold, zesty flavors. Hot Giardiniera: Hot giardiniera takes the heat up a notch by incorporating even spicier peppers like jalapenos, habaneros, and red chili peppers into the mix. This fiery version is perfect for those who enjoy a serious kick of heat in their dishes and is a popular choice for adding a punch of flavor to pizzas, pasta dishes, and grilled meats. What Is in Giardiniera? Giardiniera is a vegetable medley that is pickled in vinegar and oil. The ingredients in giardiniera can vary based on region and personal tastes. Here are some of the most common ingredients you may find in giardiniera: Bell Peppers: Bell peppers add a vibrant color and sweet flavor to giardiniera. They can be red, green, or yellow, and are typically sliced into strips or diced before being pickled. Cauliflower: Cauliflower florets are a popular addition to giardiniera, providing a mild flavor and a satisfying crunch. Carrots: Carrots are often included in giardiniera for their natural sweetness and vibrant orange color. They are typically sliced thinly or cut into matchsticks. Celery: Celery adds a refreshing crunch to giardiniera and complements the other vegetables with its mild flavor. Green Beans: Green beans contribute a fresh and crisp texture to giardiniera, enhancing its overall mouthfeel. Pearl Onions: Pearl onions are small, sweet onions that provide a subtle onion flavor to giardiniera. Peperoncini: Peperoncini peppers are a key ingredient in giardiniera, adding a spicy kick and tangy flavor to the mix. Olives: Some variations of giardiniera include pitted green olives for a briny taste and unique texture. Pickles: Dill pickles or gherkins are sometimes added to giardiniera for an extra burst of tanginess and crunch. Spices: Giardiniera is seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices such as oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, and black peppercorns to enhance its flavor profile. Vinegar: Vinegar, particularly white wine vinegar, is a key ingredient in the pickling brine used to preserve the vegetables in giardiniera. Salt: Salt, especially pickling salt, is essential for seasoning and preserving the vegetables in giardiniera. Sugar: Some recipes may include sugar to balance out the acidity of the vinegar and add a touch of sweetness to the condiment. Olive Oil: Olive oil can be added to giardiniera for richness and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the condiment. By combining these different vegetables and spices, giardiniera offers a complex and savory taste that can elevate a wide range of dishes, from sandwiches and salads to antipasto platters and charcuterie boards. How to Make Giardiniera Because of the variations of giardiniera, one giardiniera recipe may look different than the next. This allows you to customize the recipe to your menu and customers’ liking. Follow these instructions to learn how to make giardiniera. Remember to give yourself 2-3 days before enjoying the final product to achieve the perfect briney results: Gather Your Ingredients: Choose which ingredients you’ll want as the base of your giardiniera. This may include assorted vegetables such as bell peppers, celery, carrots, cauliflower, and hot peppers. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. For Chicago-style giardiniera, chop the pieces finely. If using hot peppers, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands to prevent “hot pepper hands”. Brine the Vegetables: Add approximately 1/2 cup of salt to the vegetables and mix. Fill the bowl with enough cold water to cover the vegetables, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate: Set the bowl of brining vegetables in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or preferably overnight. Drain the Salt: Pour out the salty water and rinse the vegetables. Add the Spices: In sterilized jars, add your spices, including garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and maybe sugar depending on the flavor profile you’re hoping to achieve. Pack the Giardiniera: Transfer the vegetables into the jars, filling almost to the top. Add the Vinegar: Pour your vinegar and olive oil (optional) over the ingredients, ensuring that the vegetables are fully submerged in the liquid. Let It Marinate: Seal the jars and let the giardiniera sit in the refrigerator for at least 24-48 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the bolder the flavor! How to Use Giardiniera Giardiniera is loved for being both a snackable treat or a condiment. Find ways to incorporate this briney relish into your menu with some of the following giardiniera ideas: Sandwiches: Giardiniera is a popular condiment for sandwiches, adding a tangy and spicy kick. Simply spoon some giardiniera onto your sandwich for a burst of flavor. Pizza Topping: Sprinkle giardiniera on top of your pizza before baking for a delicious twist on a classic dish. The combination of pickled vegetables and spicy peppers adds a unique element to your pizza. Hot Dogs: Elevate your hot dog game by topping them with giardiniera. The combination of spicy, tangy giardiniera with the savory flavors of a hot dog creates a delicious contrast that will impress your customers. Pasta Salad: Mix giardiniera into your pasta salad for added texture and flavor. The pickled vegetables will provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta and other ingredients. Charcuterie Boards: Giardiniera can be a great addition to a charcuterie board, offering a tangy and crunchy element that pairs well with cured meats and cheeses. Tacos and Nachos: Use giardiniera as a topping for tacos or nachos to add a zesty flavor and crunchy texture to your Mexican-inspired dishes. Bloody Marys: Garnish your Bloody Mary cocktail with a spear of giardiniera for a flavorful and eye-catching addition. The pickled vegetables will infuse your drink with a complementing brine. Salad Dressing: Blend giardiniera into your salad dressing for a tangy and spicy kick. The pickled vegetables will add depth of flavor to your favorite salads. How to Store Giardiniera Storing giardiniera properly is crucial to maintaining its freshness and flavor. Once opened, store giardiniera in the refrigerator in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other flavors and to prolong its shelf life. Make sure the vinegar and oil cover the vegetables completely to create a seal. Proper storage will help preserve the crunchiness and tangy taste of giardiniera for an extended period. How Long Does Giardiniera Last Because it is pickled, giardiniera has a relatively long shelf life when stored properly. Giardiniera made in-house can last up to 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. Commercially produced giardiniera can last for up to 1-2 years when unopened and stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and can last for one month, maintaining its flavor and quality. It's important to check the expiration date on the packaging and to ensure the giardiniera is sealed tightly after each use to maximize its shelf life. Giardiniera is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a zesty kick to a variety of dishes. Whether you're topping off a sandwich, mixing it into a pasta salad, or using it as a topping for pizza, this Italian pickled vegetable mix is sure to elevate your culinary creations with its bold flavors and crunchy texture. Experiment with different variations of giardiniera to find the perfect blend that suits your taste buds and enhances your dishes.
