A hot dog is a long, thin piece of meat, such as beef or pork sausage, contained in a bread bun. Since first appearing in the 1800s, it has taken on many variations. A gourmet hot dog is one that is more sophisticated than the sausage roll often accompanied by basic ingredients such as ketchup, mustard, or relish. It is presented in a different way and can incorporate ingredients associated with different ethnic cuisines. Hot dogs made of alternate types of food are common as well.
The traditional foods of many countries are often included with a gourmet hot dog. Feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives, and other things associated with Greek food, are sometimes mixed in, while guacamole and tortillas can be used in a Mexican-style hot dog. Asian style varieties often incorporate soy sauce, onions, garlic, and ginger. Sometimes teriyaki, chives, and pineapple make the list of ingredients for the finished product.
Other types of gourmet hot dog are wrapped in bacon, or topped with pork rinds or cheese. The many variations often develop locally and spread to regional markets. Another method to making hot dogs is to use alternate meats or vegetarian ingredients. A pork, lamb, or tuna hot dog can be produced, as well as one made with tofu. The tradition of this kind of food is to keep it simple and not overload it with ingredients, but still many variations can be found throughout the world.
Healthy meats and toppings are often found in a gourmet hot dog. There are varieties that are suitable for people on a variety of diets, or which lack any compounds that are associated with health maladies from improper food intake. Sold at ball parks, restaurants, malls, and street carts, hot dogs are often available in traditional and alternate varieties. The hot dog buns can even be made from different types of bread and be toasted, steamed, or cooked in a number of other ways.
A gourmet hot dog is not only one that can be purchased elsewhere. There are generally numerous recipes online with easily found ingredients that can be put together quite simply; one can also come up with his or own gourmet hot dog. An average sized hot dog can be changed significantly with just a few additions.