Hot dog

Perhaps all children, without exception, love hot dogs. When we talk about hot dogs, what comes into your mind? A long sausage, a soft bread roll and some ketchup? When you eat a hot dog, do you ever wonder why this kind of food is called a “hot dog”? 

It is quite certain that the term “hot dog” originated in the USA in the middle of the 19th century. When it was created, it referred to the sausage itself only. As with a lot of popular sayings, there are also many versions of its origins. One popular but dark story indicates that the sausage contained dog meat. Can you believe it?!  The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, a trade association in the USA, suggests that the phrase “hot dog” might be related to German immigrants in the 19th century. German immigrants brought frankfurters (a type of smoked sausage) and dachshund dogs (also known as “sausage dogs”, short-legged with long, thin bodies) into the USA. Some German hawkers sold these hot dachshund-like sausages in the street stalls. They became very popular among working class people because they were cheap, convenient and tasty. Eventually, the sausage itself, and the sausage in a bun both became called a “hot dog”.  Its written form appeared in an American newspaper as early as 1884:  “… the … man will be barred from dispensing hot dog on the street corner.” 

Nowadays, there are many varieties of hot dogs. People create their own recipes using their own favourite condiments and ingredients. What is your recipe? 

Glossary