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I'm a recent convert to the fermented cabbage dish Sauerkraut which I know is popular in Germany and Poland. On TV I've seen this served on hot dogs in The States and was wondering whether it is traditionally washed to produce a milder flavour before being used?
Also, is anything else (usually) served on a hot dog when sauerkraut is included - mustard/ketchup for example?
Cheers!
It really comes down to taste. In this usage, you're treating sauerkraut like a condiment so there's not really a "correct" answer.. A lot of hot dog places have traditions - for instance, Nathan's Famous hot dogs (the original "Coney Island" hot dog) uses these combinations with kraut:
-Sauerkraut, spicey brown mustard (New York style) -Thousand island dressing, sauerkraut, swiss cheese (Reuben style)
A famous hot dog maker in Pennsylvania, Yocco's Famous Dogs, uses sauerkraut and a thin bean chili combination to make their hot dogs.
The sauerkraut will often be very strong tasting, but not as "funky" as kimchi. It pairs well with a lot of different foods, usually other strong flavors (either strong tart like the spicey mustard, or strong sweet like the thousand island dressing or sweet relish).
Personally, I just eat sauerkraut with a fork. But if I have it on a dog, I pile it on with dill relish, country style dijon mustard, a dash of sriracha, and some diced onion. I recommend not kissing anyone for awhile after eating.
All beef hot dogs with sauerkraut and brown mustard, can't get much better than that unless you add bacon and/or avocado. The traditional NY hot dog is all beef hot dog with sauerkraut and mustard, you can also add a sweet diced pickle relish and/or a tomato&onion sauce too.
