Hot Dogs & Cabernet

All hot dogs are not created equal and they remain one of the most undervalued meals in modern history. Hot dogs have always been part of the modern American tradition but no movie has brought more attention to this delicious grilled treat than the character Paulette in the movie Legally Blonde 2: Red White and Blonde as she commentated on her daughter’s outfit:

Oh My God! You look like the Fourth of July! Makes me want a hot dog real bad!

This was not only an epic scene but it elevated the conversation about what a hot dog is to the dinner table. We have had many of great meals with grilled hot dogs and some amazing toppings, always served with our world famous Mac ‘n Cheese. We call these dinners Hot Dogs & Cabernet to ensure people know this is a serious meal for serious eaters.

What is critical, like in everything we cook, is the quality of the food and in this case the all beef hot dog. The only way you can create a meal around a hot dog is to get the massive jumbo dogs that weigh in at 1/4 pound each. You can find them at your butcher shop or find the Nathans or Hebrew National brands at your local grocery store.

The trick of this is to make sure you properly slice the dog so it cooks evenly, which can take up to 15 minutes but well worth the wait. Serve with. a full bodied cab and you have yourself a delicious dinner or lunch with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 8 1/4 pound hot dogs, scored as shown, 1/12 inch slice lengthwise then a crisscross down the middle on both sides
• 8 potato or brioche hot dog buns

Making It

• Turn the grill on high and cover for 15 minutes, left the lit, put the hot dogs on the grill for 7 1/2 minutes and turn over grilling for 6-71/2 minutes further, this fluctuates on your grill
• Grill the buns for 30-45 seconds
• Prepare traditional toppings and then any extras you might enjoy:
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Chopped white onion
  • Relish
  • Sliced pickles
  • Roasted bacon
  • Chili
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Pimento cheese
  • Chopped tomato
  • Chopped jalapeño