Chicago Style Hot Dog vs. New York Style Hot Dog

Attribute	Chicago Style Hot Dog	New York Style Hot Dog
Hot Dog Type	All-beef hot dog	All-beef or pork hot dog
Bun Type	Poppy seed bun	Steamed bun
Mustard	Yellow mustard	Delicatessen mustard
Onions	White onions	Raw onions
Relish	Neon green relish	Sweet relish
Pickles	Dill pickle spear	Pickle slices
Tomato	Fresh tomato slices	No tomato
Sport Peppers	Sport peppers	None
Celery Salt	Celery salt	None

Ingredients

When it comes to the ingredients used in Chicago style hot dogs and New York style hot dogs, there are some key differences. Chicago style hot dogs typically include a steamed poppy seed bun, an all-beef hot dog, yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. On the other hand, New York style hot dogs are usually served on a grilled bun with a beef and pork hot dog, mustard, sauerkraut, and onions in a tomato-based onion sauce.

Preparation

The preparation of Chicago style hot dogs and New York style hot dogs also differs. Chicago style hot dogs are traditionally steamed, which helps to warm up the bun and hot dog while keeping them moist. The toppings are then carefully arranged on top of the hot dog in a specific order to ensure that each bite has a balanced flavor profile. In contrast, New York style hot dogs are typically grilled, giving them a slightly charred and smoky flavor. The hot dog is then placed in a grilled bun and topped with the desired condiments.

Flavor Profile

One of the most noticeable differences between Chicago style hot dogs and New York style hot dogs is the flavor profile. Chicago style hot dogs are known for their bold and vibrant flavors, with the combination of mustard, onions, relish, and pickled peppers creating a tangy and slightly sweet taste. The addition of celery salt adds a unique savory element to the overall flavor profile. On the other hand, New York style hot dogs have a more savory and slightly tangy flavor, with the sauerkraut and tomato-based onion sauce providing a rich and hearty taste.

Popularity

Both Chicago style hot dogs and New York style hot dogs are iconic street foods in their respective cities, but they have different levels of popularity outside of their local areas. Chicago style hot dogs are widely recognized and celebrated for their unique combination of toppings and flavors, making them a favorite among hot dog enthusiasts across the country. On the other hand, New York style hot dogs are more commonly associated with the city itself and may not have the same level of recognition outside of the region.

Accompaniments

When it comes to accompaniments, Chicago style hot dogs and New York style hot dogs are often served with different side dishes and beverages. Chicago style hot dogs are typically enjoyed with a side of crispy French fries or a pickle spear on the side. They are also commonly paired with a cold soda or a refreshing beer to wash down the savory flavors. In contrast, New York style hot dogs are often served with a side of potato chips or coleslaw. They are also commonly enjoyed with a classic New York soda like Dr. Brown's or a glass of lemonade.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicago style hot dogs and New York style hot dogs each have their own unique attributes that set them apart from one another. From the ingredients used to the preparation methods and flavor profiles, these two iconic hot dog styles offer distinct culinary experiences for food lovers to enjoy. Whether you prefer the bold and tangy flavors of a Chicago style hot dog or the savory and hearty taste of a New York style hot dog, both options are sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and satisfying meal.