We’ve gotten plenty of interesting questions from customers over our years slinging hot dogs from the Cowtown Dogs food truck. From hot dog history, toppings debates, and food safety queries, people sure have a lot of thoughts on these delicious dogs! We decided to compile a list of the 10 most common hot dog questions we get here at Cowtown Dogs. Consider this your hot dog inquiry cheat sheet.
What’s In Our Hot Dog? Pure Beef
The main ingredients in a traditional hot dog are cured and emulsified meat trimmings like beef, pork, chicken, or turkey. The meat mixture is stuffed into casings, then cooked and packaged. Our hot dogs use 100% beef for the best classic flavor. Don’t worry – no mystery meat here!
Origin of The Hot Dog Name
While the exact origin is disputed, the common explanation is that the word “dachshund” led to their “dog” name. Dachshund sausages were found to resemble the elongated shape of a dachshund dog. Hot dog vendors also sold them in buns, leading people to call them “hot dogs.”
Are Hot Dogs Healthy?
While they aren’t the most nutritious food out there, hot dogs in moderation can be part of a balanced diet. Look for uncured beef or chicken dogs, and avoid too many salty toppings. We stick to quality ingredients and reasonable portion sizes at Cowtown. Just don’t make our wieners your sole protein source!
Ketchup On Hot Dogs – Hot Take?
This is one of the great hot dog debates! There’s certainly no right or wrong when it comes to personal taste. We say slather your dog however you like, whether that’s ketchup, mustard, chili, or any of our wide array of toppings. But any Chicagoans out there may disagree…
Down here in Texas, we live by The Original Texas Style Hot Dog brought to you by Cowtown Dogs.
Average Hot Dog Eats Per Year
Americans consume a whopping 20 billion hot dogs every year! That comes out to about 70 hot dogs per person annually. At Cowtown Dogs, we do our part to feed the hot dog-loving masses.
Always Cook Hot Dogs Properly
For food safety, it’s best to cook hot dogs until steaming hot, about 165°F. Partially cooked dogs can pose a health risk and simply don’t taste as great! We make sure to cook our premium wieners thoroughly on the flat-top to perfection.
Leftover Dog Rules
Keep unopened hot dog packages refrigerated at 40°F or below. For leftovers, store cooked hot dogs in the fridge for up to one week in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or by simmering in water until heated through. Don’t keep at room temp more than 2 hours.
Can You Eat Hot Dogs During Pregnancy?
Check with your doctor, but properly handled hot dogs are generally considered safe for pregnant women to eat. Reheating until steaming helps reduce any bacteria risk. We recommend our all-beef hot dogs for expectant moms looking to satisfy a wiener craving!
Record Hot Dog Eats
The world record for hot dogs eaten in 10 minutes is a staggering 74, achieved by Joey Chestnut in 2021. While we don’t recommend going for any eating contest records, an average person can likely eat 4-8 hot dogs in 10 minutes. Pace yourself and enjoy the flavor!
When is National Hot Dog Day?
Mark your calendars for July 23rd! This unofficial food holiday celebrates hot dogs and their history. We’ll be celebrating with hot dog deals and specials. Be sure to follow Cowtown Dogs on social media so you don’t miss out.
Contact Cowtown Dogs For Catering or Food Truck Location
There you have it – the inside scoop on some common hot dog questions. Have another wiener inquiry? Ask our staff at the Cowtown Dogs truck or comment below! We’re always ready to talk hot dogs. Come by to try The Original Texas Style Hot Dog.