Let’s be frank: Americans love hot dogs. In the U.S., people on average eat 70 franks each year. Although consumers do “relish” their dogs at certain events-baseball games, barbecues, picnics, etc.-hot dogs are a favorite dinnertime meal for the family or a quick convenient snack when on the go. Quite simply, hot dogs are a staple of the American diet.
When it comes to preparing a great-tasting hot dog, how you cook and dress it isn’t as important as the frank you choose. Besides the traditional all-beef variety, there are hot dogs for every taste bud, including turkey for the health conscious or ones with robust flavors that are perfect for the grill, such as the new GrillMaster franks.
Speaking of the grill, while microwaved and boiled hot dogs are popular, 60 percent of Americans prefer their hot dogs grilled, according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council. Sara Lee Executive Chef Brian Averna is a self-proclaimed “foodie” and has perfected the art of grilling hot dogs. His tips include:
• DO prepare the grill by coating the rack with vegetable oil or cooking spray. This will prevent food from sticking...