What’s Cooking in Kelli’s Kitchen

At 3 a.m., my husband’s alarm went off to mark the start of the MLB season. The Cubs played the Dodgers in Japan—hence the awkward hour. I was up a mere 180 minutes later to head to the legislature for Agriculture Day! It’s a busy time, leaving almost no moments for the kitchen. So, in honor of springtime baseball, enjoy this throwback celebrating an all-American classic: hot dogs!

Spring ranks in my top two favorite seasons. As I typed that first sentence, I realized how wacky that sounds considering there are only four seasons—but it’s true. Give me a year made up entirely of spring and fall, with a sprinkling of “float the river” days and “braised meat and mulled cider” days, and I’d be a satisfied gal. I love the unpredictability of the transitions—wildly varying weather with hints of either the warm summer ahead or the nip of winter as the sun sets.

Spring also brings with it the start of one of my favorite (non-canonical) seasons: baseball!

Oh, how I’ve missed baseball. It always hits me in mid-January—a mix of nostalgia (remember when it was last baseball season?) and anticipation (how many days until pitchers and catchers report?). No food is quite as synonymous with baseball as the hot dog. So, in honor of Opening Day, here’s my salute to the mighty dog.

My Hot Dog Rules

I have some strong opinions when it comes to hot dogs:

1. Mustard > Ketchup.
2. Jumbo size or bun-length dogs are the way to go.
3. I’m an all-beef hot dog gal.
4. Premium buns are preferred.

That said, I’m up for a hot dog however you like it, and I promise I won’t shame you for your choices (ketchup).

The Best Way to Cook a Hot Dog

While you can throw a hot dog straight on the grill, I prefer a two-step method to keep them plump and prevent splitting. Heating a dog in a flavorful liquid before grilling ensures even cooking and enhances flavor. This method works especially well for raw sausages.

For the cooking liquid, use anything flavorful—beer, chicken stock, or bean broth all work. Season thoroughly with salt, and feel free to add onions, sauerkraut, bay leaves, and mustard.

How to Cook Hot Dogs the Right Way

1. Combine 2 cups of liquid with seasoning ingredients in a pan.
2. Add sausages and hot dogs.
3. Bring to a simmer over the hot side of the grill.
4. Cook until they reach 140°F internally.
5. Hold the hot dogs in the warm liquid until ready to serve.
6. Transfer to the grill and crisp on all sides.

Hot Dog Toppings

There’s no right or wrong way to top a hot dog, but here are some of my favorites:

Chicago-ish Dog – Celery salt, tomatoes, onions, mustard, and a pepper.

Banh Mi Dog – Bacon-wrapped with quick-pickled carrots and cucumbers, jalapeño, cilantro, and Sriracha mayo.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Dog – Bacon-wrapped with peanut butter and Lattin Farms Jalaberry Jam.

Jalapeño Popper Dog – Bacon-wrapped with jalapeño, cream cheese, and cheddar.

Mexican Street Corn Dog – Grilled corn, chile powder, mayo, cilantro, and Sand Hill Dairy queso fresco.

Steakhouse Dog – Bacon-wrapped with blue cheese, grilled onions, and steakhouse seasoning.

The possibilities are endless! However you top it, let’s all lift our buns in salute—to spring, to baseball, and to the mighty hot dog.