I recently came across a totally subjective ‘scientific ranking’ of Hot Dog toppings. With a detailed rationale behind the researcher’s methodology. What a refreshing take on the usual fringe-opinion-ated, bombastic social media style of expression!
We usually deal in hard science here at the FFB. But ‘soft science’ has it’s charms – when done well…
What she did
Like any conscientious scientist writing her study report, author Julia Duda ads a note on her ‘meth-odology’ at the end of the document:
“When coming up with this hot dog topping ranking, I considered not only those toppings that are tasty or classic, but also ones that really, truly upgrade the handheld in some capacity.
“To me, a truly good hot dog topping complements the wiener and bun without overpowering it, and can also bring a unique flavor to the mix. Those toppings that bring some element of freshness, brightness, tanginess, or acidity fared better on this list, whereas those blander or overly rich top-pings were less successful.
“Another major thing I considered in this ranking was how well a given topping could stand on its own, with those standalone toppings naturally faring better.”
With that in mind…
Here’s Julia’s ranking:
-
- Mustard
- Relish
- Onions
- Chili
- Ketchup
- Sauerkraut
- Coleslaw
- Cheese
- Jalapeños
- Pickled Onions
- Caramelized Onions
- Bacon
- Pickle Spears
- Cream Cheese
- Mayonnaise
Check out Julia’s detailed comments at her post…
A few well-considered comments…
I agree entirely with the top 4 toppings on Julia’s list. In her order. But I’m afraid ketchup has never been a contender for me, nor for millions of other Hot Dog afficionados. See the video, above, for details. But we beg to point out that the US National Hot Dog Council advises: “Never put Ketchup on a Hot Dog if you’re over the age of 18. We all have to grow up sometime…”
Sauerkraut deserves to be high on the list, but maybe not higher then cheese. And you can forget Coleslaw altogether.
I thought Jalapeños would rank higher on Julia’s list. They’re so darned popular these days…
Pickled and Caramelized Onions don’t turn my crank. At all. But Dill Pickle spears, sliced thin length-wise, get my taste buds in a tizzy. Put them up there right next to Sauerkraut!
Cream Cheese and Mayo? Never heard of them before in reference to Hot Dogs. And I hope I never will again…
My take
As the contrast between my ranking comments and Julia’s slate clearly indicate, the judging of Hot Dog toppings really boils down to what the individual diner prefers. And Google AI tells us, Julia’s 15 ingredients can produce as many as 32,768 different combinations.
But I have to say, I agree wholeheartedly with what the National Hot Dog Council has to say about Ketchup…
~ Maggie J.