How to Grill Chicago-Style Hot Dogs on a Traeger

Summary:

The Traeger website features a recipe for authentic Chicago-style hot dogs, emphasizing grilling over pecan hardwood pellets. The recipe includes foot-long hot dogs served in poppy seed buns and topped with yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, diced white onions, tomato wedges, dill pickle spears, and pickled sport peppers. The process involves preheating the grill to 375°F, grilling the hot dogs for 15 minutes while turning every 5 minutes, and warming the buns for the last 3 minutes. The hot dogs are then assembled with the toppings and served immediately.

A Guide to Perfect Grilled Chicago Hot Dogs

Chicago is known for its distinct style of hot dogs, a culinary staple that refuses to conform to the usual condiment choices. A true Chicago-style hot dog is a symphony of flavors and textures, grilled to perfection and meticulously assembled with a variety of fresh and pickled toppings. This guide will walk you through the process of creating these iconic hot dogs using a Traeger grill, ensuring each bite is as authentic as possible.

The Essentials of a Chicago-Style Hot Dog

The cornerstone of a Chicago-style hot dog lies in its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Foot-long Hot Dogs: Opt for high-quality, all-beef hot dogs to capture the authentic taste.
• Poppy Seed Buns: These add a subtle nutty flavor and distinct texture.
• Yellow Mustard: The classic choice, offering a tangy kick.
• Sweet Pickle Relish: Provides a balance of sweetness to the savory components.
• Diced White Onions: Adds a fresh, sharp contrast.
• Tomato Wedges: Freshness and a slight acidity that complement the hot dog.
• Dill Pickle Spears: Crunchy and sour, they are an essential element.
• Pickled Sport Peppers: For a bit of heat and tang.

Grilling the Perfect Hot Dog

To achieve the quintessential grilled flavor, use pecan hardwood pellets. Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your Traeger grill to 375°F and allow it to preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
2. Grill the Hot Dogs: Place the hot dogs directly on the grill grates. Grill for 15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
3. Warm the Buns: During the last 3 minutes of grilling, place the buns on the grill to warm them up.

Assembling Your Masterpiece

The assembly of the Chicago-style hot dog is as crucial as the grilling process. Follow these steps for the perfect assembly:

1. Place the Hot Dog in the Bun: Start with a warm poppy seed bun.
2. Add Mustard: Generously spread yellow mustard along the hot dog.
3. Top with Relish and Onions: Add sweet pickle relish and a generous amount of diced white onions.
4. Arrange the Tomato and Pickle: Place tomato wedges on one side of the hot dog and dill pickle spears on the other.
5. Finish with Sport Peppers: Lay pickled sport peppers down the middle for a spicy kick.

Serve your Chicago-style hot dogs immediately to enjoy the full burst of flavors and textures.

A Taste of Chicago at Home

By following this guide, you can bring a taste of Chicago to your home. Whether for a summer cookout or a casual dinner, these hot dogs are sure to impress. The combination of a perfectly grilled hot dog with the traditional toppings creates an unforgettable culinary experience that pays homage to the Windy City's beloved street food. Enjoy your journey through the flavors of Chicago, one bite at a time.