The Great Chicago Dog Relish Debate
Hold the Ketchup!
If you've ever dared to venture into the hallowed grounds of Chicago, you've undoubtedly heard the gospel according to the Chicago-style hot dog. It's a religion, people. And one of its most sacred commandments involves the relish.
Relish: The Green Menace?
Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room (or should I say, the relish in the bun?). That peculiar shade of green that adorns the Chicago dog. It's like someone decided to give a pickle a glow-up and invited it to a rave. Some call it vibrant, others call it radioactive. I personally refer to it as "the green menace".
But don't be fooled by its alien appearance. This relish is actually a sweet pickle relish that’s been given a shot of blue dye. It's a bold flavor choice that demands your attention. Some say it's the secret ingredient that ties the whole Chicago dog experience together. Others insist it's a culinary crime against humanity. I'm somewhere in the middle. It’s definitely an acquired taste, like cilantro or durian.
Relish Rules
- Rule #1: It's Green, Deal With It. If you're expecting a normal, beige pickle relish, you're in the wrong city.
- Rule #2: Less is More. A little goes a long way with this stuff. Overloading your dog with green relish is like wearing neon sunglasses at night. It's just not necessary.
- Rule #3: Don't Be Afraid to Experiment. While the traditional Chicago dog is a masterpiece, feel free to put your own spin on it. Maybe try a different kind of relish, or add some extra toppings. But remember, if you mess it up, don't blame me.
How to Relish Your Chicago Dog
So, you're ready to embark on the Chicago dog adventure. But how do you navigate the treacherous waters of relish? Fear not, intrepid eater, I'm here to guide you.
- How to avoid green teeth: Napkins, my friend. Lots of napkins.
- How to appreciate the flavor: Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Focus on the sweet and tangy notes of the relish.
- How to make your own Chicago dog relish: You can find plenty of recipes online. Just be prepared to deal with a lot of blue food coloring.
- How to convince a skeptic to try it: Offer them a blind taste test. Just don't tell them what it is until after they've taken a bite.
- How to survive a Chicago dog eating contest: Practice, practice, practice. And maybe invest in a good dentist.
Remember, a Chicago dog is a journey, not a destination. So relax, enjoy the ride, and don't be afraid to get messy.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any hot dog-related organizations.