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Classic Chicago-Style Beef Hot Dog

Authentic Chicago-style hot dog loaded with fresh toppings including mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, peppers, and pickle spear. This iconic regional variation is known for being 'dragged through the garden' with vibrant flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 4 all-beef hot dogs
  • 4 poppy seed hot dog buns
  • 1/2 cup yellow mustard
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 1/2 cup chopped white onion
  • 4 tomato wedges
  • 4 sport peppers
  • 4 dill pickle spears
  • Celery salt to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Place the beef hot dogs on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop nice char marks and are heated through. Avoid piercing the casings to keep the juices inside.
  3. Lightly toast the poppy seed buns on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until warm and slightly crispy.
  4. Place the grilled hot dog in the bun and top in this exact order: yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, chopped white onion, tomato wedge, sport pepper, dill pickle spear, and a generous sprinkle of celery salt.

Notes

Grill hot dogs over medium-high heat rather than boiling for best flavor. Choose poppy seed buns for authentic Chicago style. Serve cold toppings cold and warm toppings warm for temperature contrast. Use high-quality all-beef hot dogs for superior taste and texture.