Tailgate season is in full force, and that means firing up the grill before the game. When it comes to convenient pre-game grub from your local deli, few options beat the classic hot dog. However, you don’t have to settle for a standard weenie in your bun. Add more taste to your tailgate spread with these simple steps.

5 Hot Dog Tips for Tailgate

1. Cram in Cheese

Some people like to sprinkle cheese on top of a hot dog, but if you want that true gooey goodness, it’s better to stuff it in the meat. Before you grill the wieners, slice them down the middle and stuff in as much shredded cheese as you can. As you fire them up, the cheese will melt perfectly in the center of the meat.  For an extra culinary touch, try this trick with imported cheeses from your local deli.

2. Cook Up Some Chili Dogs

Prepare a nice batch of chili in a slow cooker with beef, beans, and any other ingredients that suit your taste. Ladle it onto your hot dogs so you can get extra meat and spice with every bite. You’ll also have a backup option for anyone who wants an alternative to hot dogs, as chili is great a la carte.  

3. Chow Down on a Flaky Crust

If you have some kind of oven, try this spin on pigs-in-a-blanket. Wrap a hot dog with bacon, cheese, and other preferred ingredients in pastry dough. Bake for about 12 minutes at 375 degrees until they’re golden brown, and enjoy a snack that’s perfect for dipping.

4. Make It Veal

All-beef or pork hot dogs tend to be a crowd-favorite during tailgates. However, if you prefer a more tender and smoother link, veal hot dogs are a great way to elevate your pre-game gathering.

5. Offer Globe-Trotting Toppings

While football is an American tradition, there’s always room to invite international flavors to your tailgate lineup, especially when it comes to hot dogs. For example, you can make a Vietnamese Bahn Mi dog by topping the dish with rice vinegar, coleslaw, radishes, cucumber, basil, cilantro, mint, and Sriracha mayo. If you want a bite that takes you south of the border, try chorizo hot dogs topped with avocado and salsa.

When it’s time to stock up for your tailgate, JJ International Delicatessen has all the specialty meats you need to make a memorable hot dog. Located in Port Jervis, NY, this deli serves up freshly prepared all-beef and all-veal hot dogs. For extra flavor, try their hot dogs prepared with homemade meat sauce or sauerkraut. They also offer an impressive selection of European cheeses that pair great with their specialty meats, such as Ukrainian-style Dutch, Swiss, and smoked goat cheeses. Learn more about these options online or call (845) 858-1142 to place a food delivery order.