Hot dogs are a popular summertime food, and preparing them seems simple. However, there are various methods to cook this staple, each with different results. Chef Kenji López-Alt, a James Beard Award winner and cookbook author, offers some helpful advice.
Choosing the Right Hot Dog
López-Alt emphasizes starting your hot dog journey at the supermarket. He recommends selecting hot dogs with natural casings, which provide a satisfying snap. Natural casings, made from lamb skins, give hot dogs a slight curve. In contrast, hot dogs without casing lay flat in packaging.
Quick Methods for Instant Gratification
Many home cooks have their own opinions on cooking hot dogs. Some prefer boiling them, while others roast them over a fire. However, the quickest methods include using a microwave or air fryer.
Microwave
“Low and slow is always a good idea with any kind of sausages,” López-Alt mentions. Although he prefers this approach, microwaves are practical with children around.
Our test included wrapping a hot dog in a paper towel and microwaving it for 45 seconds. The result? A split skin, shriveled ends, and limp texture. Despite its speed, microwaving didn’t deliver the best results.
Air Fryer
The air fryer offered a quicker, tastier alternative. According to López-Alt, an air fryer’s convection fan removes excess moisture. This method produced a crispy, nicely colored hot dog, although with a slightly misshapen form. Some chefs suggest cutting the skin for more surface area. While effective with some franks, it’s discouraged for hot dogs with natural casings.
Slow Cooking for Rich Flavors
The slow cooker is another option, mimicking gas station methods by applying low heat for hours. A Kentucky friend of López-Alt’s uses a slow cooker with cocktail weenies, ketchup, brown sugar, and bourbon. The resulting flavor is rich, though the color can be unappealing.
In our test, slow-cooked hot dogs, without water, appeared unappetizing after hours at low heat. However, the taste was pleasantly savory and satisfying. This method allows for a large batch to be prepared, staying warm for extended periods during gatherings.
Grilling: A Timeless Classic
Grilling remains a favorite method. We tested a Weber grill, warming hot dogs away from coals and finishing them directly over the heat. This method yielded vibrant grill marks and perfect texture. Regional toppings add further enjoyment, with López-Alt noting variations like sauerkraut and spicy mustard in New York, and unique combinations in Seattle.
Whether using an air fryer, grill, or slow cooker, your preferred toppings enhance the flavor. Enjoy this timeless staple in various ways, bringing richness to your holiday meals.
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