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?
asked Sep 14, 2013 at 18:21
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4No, saurkraut is not traditionally washed, but there are an infinite number of hot dog eating traditions. I am not sure that there is any single answer to what else goes with saurkraut on a hot dog.– SAJ14SAJSep 14, 2013 at 19:46
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1I add mustard, even though both Sauerkraut/zuurkool and mustard are already sour.– CerberusSep 14, 2013 at 21:34
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1American Sauerkraut is milder tasting not because it's washed, but because it is pasteurized to extend shelf life, which kills the live cultures.– Lee Daniel CrockerFeb 18, 2020 at 17:34
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1 Answer
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.
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Thanks for the information, some interesting suggestions to try! Sep 20, 2013 at 8:16