The New York style hot dog is an iconic American food, synonymous with New York City. Unlike other hot dog varieties, New York style hot dogs have a distinct set of toppings that set them apart. So what exactly goes on a New York style hot dog? Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that create the classic New York dog experience.
Table of Contents
The Hot Dog Itself
At the heart of the New York style hot dog is the actual hot dog sausage. While hot dogs are sold everywhere in the United States, the hot dogs used on New York style dogs are different than your average hot dog. New York hot dog sausages are made from a combination of beef and pork. They are flavored with garlic, herbs, and other spices. The casing gives them a signature “snap” when bitten into. New York style hot dogs are always served steamed or boiled, never grilled. This steaming process allows them to absorb maximum moisture and flavor.
The Bun
In New York, hot dogs are served on soft, fluffy buns. The buns are leavened with a mixture of water, yeast, malt syrup, salt, shortening, and flour. This gives them a slightly sweet taste. The buns are baked into long rolls which are sliced partially through the middle, creating a hinge that opens when you add the hot dog. The soft texture and breadiness is an essential component of the New York hot dog experience. Buns from brand names like H&H Bagels and Papaya King are most iconic.
Traditional Must-Have Toppings
While creativity is encouraged, there are certain toppings that absolutely must be included to consider a hot dog truly New York style.
Mustard
Mustard is the most important and iconic topping for a New York hot dog. The bright yellow condiment adds a tangy, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the salty meatiness of the hot dog. The mustard used is typically a spicy brown or yellow mustard. Ketchup is frowned upon by hot dog traditionalists.
Onions
Chopped raw white onions add a fresh, crisp bite to balance the soft textures of a New York hot dog. Onions also add a subtle sweetness. The sharpness of the onions mixes with the spice of the mustard for the classic hot dog taste.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, made from fermented cabbage, is a quintessential New York hot dog topping. The salty, sour flavor serves as a counterpoint to the other toppings. Sauerkraut adds texture and the tanginess compliments the mustard.
| Topping | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Mustard | Tangy, spicy |
| Onions | Mild, sweet, crisp |
| Sauerkraut | Salty, sour |
Popular Extra Toppings
While mustard, onions, and sauerkraut make up the core toppings, there are many other additions New Yorkers enjoy on their hot dogs.
Chili Sauce
For those who want to add even more flavor, an extra squirt of savory chili sauce takes the hot dog to the next level. The rich, meaty chili complements the sausage and other toppings.
Pickle Relish
Tart pickle relish features chopped pickles and has a sweet and sour taste. It adds texture and more tanginess to cut through the richer flavors.
Crinkle-Cut Fries
For extra indulgence, an order of crinkle cut French fries turns a hot dog into a complete meal. The crispiness of the fries balances the softness of the hot dog and bun.
| Topping | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Chili Sauce | Savory, meaty |
| Pickle Relish | Sweet, sour, tangy |
| Crinkle-Cut Fries | Crispy, salty |
Cheese
For extra richness, melted American or cheddar cheese takes the hot dog to another level. The creaminess pairs perfectly with the meatiness.
Jalapeños
Sliced or diced jalapeños bring a fiery spiciness to the hot dog for those who like heat. The crisp pepper adds nice texture.
Bacon
Crispy cooked bacon bits add smoky, salty, porky flavor to complement the hot dog sausage. Bacon satisfies meat lovers.
| Topping | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Melted Cheese | Creamy, rich |
| Jalapeños | Spicy, crisp |
| Bacon | Smoky, salty |
Regional Variations
While the above are standard toppings for a New York style hot dog everywhere, some regions within New York have their own signature spins.
Rochester White Hots
Rochester, New York is known for “white hots” – hot dogs made from a mixture of pork and veal that gives them a light color. These are popularly topped with a hot meat sauce, mustard, and onions.
Buffalo Chicken Hot Dogs
Buffalo, New York loves putting spicy buffalo chicken wings sauce and blue cheese dressing on their dogs for a tasty twist.
Spiedies
Spiedies are meat on a stick that originated in Binghamton, New York. These seasoned cubed chicken, pork, lamb or beef chunks can be served on a bun as a unique hot dog variation.
Italian Hot Dogs
In parts of New York and New Jersey, Italian hot dogs are popular. These include fried Italian sausage topped with fried peppers, onions, and potatoes on pizza bread.
Famous New York Hot Dog Joints
Part of the allure of New York hot dogs is where you eat them. Iconic restaurants and street carts have reached celebrity status for their dogs.
Papaya King
This New York chain has been serving their signature hot dogs since 1932. Their natural casing hot dogs and fresh toppings are a classic.
Nathan’s Famous
Nathan’s hot dogs at Coney Island and elsewhere are legendary, including their 4th of July hot dog eating contest. Their crinkle-cut fries are great too.
Gray’s Papaya
This beloved Manhattan hot dog joint is open 24 hours and piled high with juicy dogs and delicious toppings.
Sabrett
This brand operates many of the iconic New York street carts serving hot dogs and other treats to tourists and locals alike. Their natural casing dogs are excellent.
Katz’s Delicatessen
While known for their enormous sandwiches, Katz’s hot dogs should not be overlooked. Their kosher beef and natural casing make these dogs extra juicy.
How To Eat a New York Hot Dog Like a Local
To fully enjoy a New York hot dog, there are some techniques to eat them like a true New Yorker:
- Hold the hot dog in your right hand. Don’t use utensils.
- Lean forward over the hot dog to prevent drips on yourself.
- Take medium to large bites, not dainty nibbles.
- Eat while walking down the street.
- Don’t hesitate to pile on multiple toppings.
- If indoors, ask for a side of hot mustard for dipping.
- Finish the entire dog!
Conclusion
The New York style hot dog was perfected as an ideal handheld meal. Its balance of flavors and textures makes a satisfying combination. While simple in concept, attention to details like high quality sausage, the right toppings, and where you enjoy it elevate the New York hot dog to an iconic, cultural food item that every visitor must try. When in New York, eat as many hot dogs from as many legendary spots as you can!
