American Hot Dog
Instructions
- 1
Heat a grill pan or regular skillet over medium-high heat.
- 2
Score the hot dogs diagonally with shallow cuts about 1/2 inch apart - this helps them cook evenly and creates nice grill marks.
- 3
Place the hot dogs on the hot grill pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning every 2 minutes to ensure even browning on all sides.
- 4
While the hot dogs are cooking, lightly butter the insides of the hot dog buns.
- 5
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, place the buttered buns face-down on the grill pan to toast until golden brown.
- 6
Remove the hot dogs and buns from heat. Place each hot dog in a toasted bun.
- 7
Top each hot dog with your preferred condiments - traditionally mustard on one side, ketchup on the other, followed by relish and diced onions.
- 8
Serve immediately while hot.
Chef's Note
"The secret to a perfect hot dog is the diagonal scoring - it prevents the casing from splitting randomly and gives you those restaurant-style grill marks. For an authentic ballpark experience, steam the buns instead of toasting them by wrapping them in damp paper towels and microwaving for 10 seconds."
