Not your average hot dog: New topping ideas from across the country

Summer is here and barbecue season is now in full swing. For some that means a complicated carnivorous feast, complete with marination, slow cooking and temperature probes.

For other, however, the humble hot dog is the perfect snack for al fresco dining. An American classic it’s cheap and cheerful and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

But while the ketchup-mustard-onions trifecta remains the most popular, there are plenty of other options. A recent investigation from AllRecipes found that there are countless regional variations to the hot dog that will suit all tastes.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular hot dogs variations as you prepare for a summer of outdoor eating...

What are the best hot dog toppings?

Seattle: Cream Cheese Dogs - The application of cheese on a hot dog is a deeply controversial move, but it’s one that is common in Seattle. The combination of caramelized onions and rich cream cheese adds a new dimension to the traditional hot dog.

Chicago: The Chicago-style Hot Dog - The Windy City is known for many thing, but this take on the hot dog is perhaps the most unique. Chicago’s sports fans are known for liking theirs with tomato wedges and a dill pickle, alongside the more typical mustard, relish and chopped onions.

Detroit: Coney Dogs - Another sports favorite, the Detroit Coney brings chili sauce, mustard and onions to the classic wiener.

Ulster County: Texas Hot Weiner - Additional hot dogs are ground into a chunky paste and made into a quick and easy chili, which is then added to a regular bunned hot dog. It’s double hot dog, who can complain?

New Jersey: The Jersey Ripper - The original is found at Rutt’s Hut in Clifton, NJ but it’s a recipe that many have managed to recreate at home. The term ‘ripper’ signifies the presence of the lesser-spotted deep-fried hot dog, which is then topped with bacon, onions and corn chips.

All of these lesser-known alternatives could prove deeply controversial in the wrong situation but they do prove one key truth. Beyond the wiener and the bun, there is an almost endless list of possibilities when it comes to the humble hot dog.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment.Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.