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Hot dogs may not be considered gourmet fare, but they are a staple at ballparks, boardwalks, and summer barbecues. Loved for both their taste and convenience, these all-American sausages are a classic choice. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay attention to how you prepare them. According to one expert, some methods produce better results than others.
Ella Quittner, a writer and recipe developer for Food52, tested nine different techniques to find the perfect way to cook a hot dog. Her tests included everything from the quick and easy microwave method to the more time-consuming beer-boiling and slow-cooking techniques.
The best way to cook a hot dog ultimately depends on personal preference, but Quittner has a few standout recommendations. For a crispy, browned exterior, she suggests grilling the sausages or cooking them over an open flame like a campfire. Alternatively, searing them on the stovetop will achieve a similar crunch without the smoky flavor.
The writer suggests that boiling frankfurters in beer produces a plump, juicy hot dog that "tastes more like a hot dog than any other hot dog." Boiling them in plain water also keeps the hot dogs juicy, without adding any extra flavors.
Slow-cooking the dogs for four hours was found to be the best way to mimic the ballpark experience at home. Although fast, the microwave method should be avoided as it results in a burst sausage and tough skin. You can find full step-by-step instructions for each method at Food52.
Once you’ve figured out how to cook your hot dog, the next step is determining how to eat it. The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council provides an official etiquette guide for consuming frankfurters, including the best buns to use and the proper order for adding condiments. Here are more facts about this iconic American dish.
