Americans are known for their love of hot dogs, consuming approximately 7 billion of them from Memorial Day to Labor Day, as reported by the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council. The popular Hulu series "The Bear" has not only sparked a fascination with attractive line cooks but has also reignited the age-old debate on which condiments are appropriate for a hot dog.
In a particular scene from Season 1, Episode 4, Richie questions, "What kind of a**hole puts ketchup on a hot dog?" to which Carmy responds, "A child, Richie." This sentiment is shared by many Chicagoans, where the topic of ketchup on hot dogs is a contentious one.
While the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council has identified 18 regional hot dog styles in the US, the variations go far beyond that. In New York, hot dogs are typically served with mustard and steamed onions, while in the Southwest, the Sonora hot dog includes bacon, pinto beans, jalapeños, and crema.
However, in Chicago, home of "The Bear" and renowned for its hot dogs, the use of ketchup on a hot dog is often frowned upon. The classic Chicago hot dog features mustard, neon-green relish, onions, a pickle spear, tomatoes, celery salt, and a poppy seed bun, with sport peppers as an optional addition. The origins of this style can be traced back to the Great Depression when hot dogs served as a full meal.
Notably, even former President Barack Obama, a Chicago native, expressed his disapproval of ketchup on hot dogs, stating that it’s not acceptable past the age of 8. Some hot dog stands in the Chicagoland area, like Gene and Jude’s in River Grove, take pride in not serving ketchup.
The debate over ketchup on hot dogs extends beyond Chicago, with experts like Bill Savage emphasizing the importance of personal preference and authenticity. While some argue that ketchup’s sweetness clashes with other flavors, others believe it overpowers them. Ultimately, the choice of condiments comes down to individual taste and creativity.
Children are often given a pass when it comes to putting ketchup on hot dogs, with varying opinions on the age cutoff. The debate between ketchup and mustard reflects a broader conflict between sweet and savory flavors, shaped by age, genetics, and cultural influences.
Chicago is not the only place where ketchup is controversial on hot dogs. While some regions embrace ketchup as a condiment, others, like Chicago, adhere to tradition by excluding it. The beauty of hot dogs lies in their versatility, allowing for a wide range of toppings to suit personal preferences. In the end, as Doug Sohn aptly puts it, "There’s only two kinds of foods: good and bad. And if it tastes good, then go ahead."
