Celebrate National Hot Dog Day
Wiener or weenie. Frank or frankfurter. No matter what you call it, the hot dog, an iconic American food, is worth celebrating on National Hot Dog Day.
BY VICKI MARTINEZ
Since the first dog-in-a-bun was sold in the late 1800s from a Coney Island stand, the hot dog has become an emblem of eating contests across the globe, a standard in sports stadiums and a hallmark of home grilling. Yet, it wasn't until 1956, when the U.S. Chamber of Commerce declared July as National Hot Dog Month, that the venerable classic finally received the recognition it deserves.
Considering America's devotion to the dog, it's not surprising that frankfurter fans deemed the wiener worthy of its own national day of celebration.
Who knows why it took so long? It wasn't for lack of popularity, that's for sure.
TO THE DOG, WE ARE DEVOTED
Although hot dogs are enjoyed year-round, there’s no denying they’re a summertime staple. The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC) estimates that from May 31 (Memorial Day) to September 7 (Labor Day), Americans will eat nearly 7 billion hot dogs.
Of course, to experience the epitome of hot dog adoration, there's nowhere better than at a ballgame.
FACTS FROM THE NHDSC
Preferred cooking method: grilled
Preferred condiment: mustard
Americans believe ketchup on a dog is acceptable
Top hot
dog-loving city:
Los Angeles
Hot dog sales in 2019
BALLPARKS: A HOT DOG HAVEN
The first union of hot dogs and baseball was in 1893 when German immigrant Chris Von de Ahe, the owner of the St. Louis Browns (you know them today as the St. Louis Cardinals) sold hot dogs to baseball fans. Since then, a visit to any MLB stadium is a lesson in culinary concoction-ry. Check out this menu of mouthwatering examples, courtesy of the NHDSC, taking the humble hot dog to new levels.
Sadly, these unbelievable bun-and-dog combos won't find their way into the hearts and mouths of baseball fans this year, but don't let that stop you from celebrating. Try recreating your favorite major league monstrosity or develop your own signature dog. Just don’t forget that behind every good hot dog is a great bun.
FEATURED RECIPES
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