LA hot dog, often referred to as “street dogs,” are a well-liked culinary mainstay in Los Angeles. Usually, a hot dog wrapped in bacon, expertly grilled, and topped with a variety of delectable additions, these mouthwatering delicacies are made.
They represent LA’s thriving culinary scene, which is influenced by both the city’s diverse population and Mexican food.
Ingredients
To create authentic LA hot dog, gather the following ingredients:
High-quality hot dogs (preferably beef)
Thinly sliced bacon
Soft white hot dog buns
Olive oil
White onion
Red bell pepper
Green bell pepper
Fresh jalapeños
Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Yellow mustard
Salt and pepper
LA Hot Dog
Preparing the Ingredients
The first step in making LA hot dog is to get your ingredients ready. Cut the bell peppers and onions into thin strips to begin. They will cook more evenly and blend in well with the other tastes if you do this. Slice fresh jalapeños lengthwise if you like a little heat, and remove the seeds if you like a softer taste.
Then wrap a piece of bacon tightly around each hot dog. In addition to adding taste, the bacon keeps the hot dog juicy while it cooks. To keep the bacon from unraveling while cooking, make sure to tuck in the ends.
Cooking the Vegetables
Put a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the bell peppers and chopped onions to the heated oil. To taste, add salt and pepper to them. Allow these veggies to soften and start to caramelize, which should take five to seven minutes. A slightly burnt flavor that enhances the richness of the hot dogs covered in bacon is the aim.
To add even more flavor, try grilling or charring your jalapeños for a few minutes with the peppers and onions until they are soft.
Grilling the Hot Dogs
Heat your grill or griddle to medium-high heat while your veggies are cooking. To ensure consistent cooking, place the hot dogs wrapped in bacon on the grill, making sure to leave space between them. Turn them occasionally while grilling them for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. To create the ideal contrast with the juicy hot dog inside, the bacon should be cooked thoroughly but not burned.
You can also fry these in a skillet over medium heat if you’d rather do it indoors. For even cooking, just be sure to turn them often.
Toasting the Buns
Use this time to lightly toast your buns on the grill or in a different skillet while your hot dogs are grilling. In addition to giving texture, a toasted bun helps support the juicy toppings you’ll be adding later. Try to keep them on the heat for just long enough to warm them through without getting overly crispy.
Assembling Your LA Hot Dogs
It’s time to put together your LA hot dogs now that every part is prepared. First, put each hot dog wrapped with bacon inside a toasted bun. Then heap the sautéed onion and pepper combination on top of each one. Top with pieces of grilled jalapeño for those who like more taste.
Add your preferred condiments to complete your creation: ketchup for sweetness, yellow mustard for acidity, and mayonnaise for smoothness. Each ingredient adds a distinct flavor to these street-style treats as a whole.
See also: 10 vegetable soup recipe
Additional Toppings
Even though classic toppings taste great by themselves, don’t be afraid to experiment! The following extra toppings can improve your LA hot dog experience:
Avocado
The smoky aromas of the bacon and sausage are counterbalanced by the creamy addition of sliced or mashed avocado. Additionally, it adds a novel element that makes every bite more cheerful.
Cilantro A dash of fresh cilantro can improve the flavor profile by adding an aromatic touch. Jalapeños and other spicy ingredients go well with its herbal overtones.
Cheese
Before serving, top your hot dog with shredded cheese (cotija or cheddar work great) if you’re a cheese fan. All of the other toppings are enhanced by the richness that melted cheese brings.
Pickled Onions
In addition to bringing crunch and color, pickled onions contribute acidity that cuts through richness. To make them quickly, marinate sliced onions in vinegar for around half an hour before serving.
Hot Sauce
Before consuming your prepared hot dog, pour some hot sauce over it for those who want even more heat! Spice enthusiasts will enjoy the added kick this will provide it.
Serving Recommendations
The best way to eat LA hot dog is warm, right off the grill. For a full supper, serve them with a simple salad or some crispy potato chips. Serve them with fresh fruit salsa or Mexican-style elote (grilled corn) for a real street food experience.
Additionally, you can alter your toppings to suit dietary requirements or personal preferences. You may improve your dish even more by adding ingredients like avocado slices or hot sauces.
The History of LA Hot Dogs
Like their deliciousness, LA hot dogs have a long history. These street dogs, which first appeared in the late 1980s and early 1990s, quickly gained popularity among both foodies and late-night partygoers. The combination of grilled onions, peppers, and jalapeños with a hot dog wrapped in bacon was inspired by the city’s varied culinary traditions, especially Mexican street food.
The LA hot dog rapidly became well-known as street vendors and food trucks grew in number around the city. For those who want to sate their late-night desires, vendors frequently set up shop close to bars and nightclubs, offering a delectable alternative. These delectable delights are now available at a number of food stalls across the city, each of which offers an own take on the traditional recipe.
Conclusion
Making LA hot dog at home is not only simple but also immensely fulfilling. These bacon-wrapped treats encapsulate the spirit of street food culture in Los Angeles with their deep flavors and gratifying textures. This recipe is sure to impress, whether you’re serving it to guests or just treating yourself.
