You’re probably familiar with hot dogs as they’re a staple of American food culture. Often enjoyed at baseball games and cookouts, they’re also available at grocery stores as a delicious, easy-to-make food. Maui dogs, however, combine the traditional hot dog with unique Hawaiian ingredients to create an authentic treat. Below, learn more about what makes a Maui dog different, and why you should try one next time you’re on the island.

Classic Hot Dogs

The American food version of the hot dog evolved from the sausage sandwich found in Germany. They are typically served on a soft white bun and made from ground meat, such as pork, beef, or chicken. They are flavored with fat, paprika, salt, and garlic, and many commercially bought hot dogs also use preservatives to keep them fresh.

There are alternatives like the corn dog or chili cheese dog, but often the condiments are still limited to ketchup, mustard, onion, and relish. Traditional dogs are usually about six-inches, making them perfect for a snack. 

Maui Dogs

Maui dogs add a tasty Hawaiian twist to traditional hot dogs. They’re always made with 100% beef, and are typically served on a brioche bun, which is enriched with butter and eggs, so it tastes sweet. They are also bigger, often a foot long, making for a more substantial meal.

The authentic island ingredients that give the dish its name are toppings less common in American food, like guava BBQ sauce, pineapple, wasabi aioli, mango aioli, and furikake. You can also add traditional ingredients, like onions, jalapenos, bacon, or nacho cheese, but more unique ingredients like a fried egg, Portuguese sausage, tofu, and kielbasa are also popular. 

Whether you’re interested in trying the local flavor of the Maui dog, or are looking for the comfort of classic American food, head to Maui Burgers in Kihei, HI. Using only locally sourced ingredients, with fresh food made daily, they provide customers with the most delicious and unique entrees on this side of the island, including deep-fried mac and cheese balls, rainbow grilled cheese, and crispy tofu dogs. View their menu on their website or call (808) 419-6389 to make a reservation or place a takeout order.