A hot dog is not a sandwich, according to an official press release from the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council.
“Limiting the hot dog’s significance by saying it’s ‘just a sandwich’ is like calling the Dalai Lama ‘just a guy,’” NHDSC President Janet Riley said in the press release. “Perhaps at one time its importance could be limited by forcing it into a larger sandwich category, but that time has passed. We therefore choose to take a cue from a great performer and declare our namesake be a ‘hot dog formerly known as a sandwich.’”
I couldn’t agree more with this statement.
Growing up in the small town of Sandwich, Illinois, I have the authority to weigh in on the controversial topic of whether or not a hot dog is a sandwich or simply a hot dog.
I come from a family of foodies. My parents love all kinds of food and without hesitation; often drive to Chicago on weekends to get their fix on all types of cuisine. I missed out on that gene and tend to be a picky eater.
However, I do love me a classic hot dog. A truly authentic Chicago hot dog is one that appeals to all of my senses.
The visual is a masterpiece: the hot dog is topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers and a dash of celery salt. Ketchup is unacceptable.
The smell is a warm, steamed poppy seed bun mixed with a hint of salty Vienna beef (my kind of aromatherapy). Cradling the soft, pillowy bun in my hand is as comforting as warm mittens on a chilly day.
My taste buds water in anticipation of the first bite and are not disappointed. The taste is heavenly, and the snap of the hot dog after taking a bite is music to my ears.
Jeff Mauro, Bradley alumnus (00’) and host of Food Network’s series “Sandwich King,” had an episode titled “Hot Diggity Dog,” where he whipped up a version of the classic Gene and Jude’s hot dog. Really, Jeff Mauro? While it’s an homage to the legendary dog, it’s NOT a sandwich.
A sandwich can never evoke gastronomic perfection. Merriam Webster defines it as two pieces of bread with something (such as meat, peanut butter, etc.) between them. Just saying the word sandwich after saying hot dog is such a letdown to me.
How often has your fridge been empty and your only option is to make a sandwich out of desperation and hunger?
In my mind, it’s just not the same feeling if I can come home to have hot dogs with some friends instead of a sandwich.
