Icelandic hot dogs

icelandic_hot_dogs

Icelandic hot dogs- An Evolution of a Classic

When most people think of hot dogs, they envision the classic American version: a frankfurter nestled in a squishy bun, topped off with ketchup and mustard. However, in Scandinavia and Iceland, hot dogs are a different story altogether. These countries have made the hot dog their own, and developed unique variations that are beloved and devoured by locals and tourists alike.

In Iceland specifically, the hot dog (or pylsa, as it’s known in Icelandic) is practically a national dish. In fact, the country has the highest hot dog consumption per capita in the world - an impressive feat for a nation with just over 300,000 inhabitants. So what makes Icelandic hot dogsso special?

It all starts with the sausage itself. Icelandic hot dogs are made with a blend of beef, pork, and lamb, giving them a distinct flavor and texture that is unlike any other hot dog you’ve ever tasted. They are also smaller and thinner than your average hot dog, usually around 6 inches long and just slightly thicker than a pencil.

The toppings are what really set Icelandic hot dogsapart, however. The classic way to eat a pylsa is to slather it in three different condiments: ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade, a mayonnaise-based sauce with chopped pickles, capers, and onions. These toppings combine to create a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the savory sausage.

Of course, not all Icelandic hot dogsare created equal. Though the basic ingredients may be the same, different stalls and vendors throughout the country may add their own unique twist to the recipe. For example, some may sprinkle crispy fried onions or raw onions on top of their hot dogs, while others may use a spicier mustard or add a dollop of sour cream to the mix.

One of the most famous purveyors of Icelandic hot dogsis Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a small hot dog stand located in the heart of Reykjavik’s harbor area. It has been serving up delicious hot dogs for over 80 years, and has become a destination in its own right. Tourists and locals alike line up for the chance to try one of their famous “eina með öllu” (one with everything) hot dogs, piled high with all the classic toppings.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try making Icelandic hot dogsat home, it’s actually quite simple. All you need is some Icelandic-style hot dog sausages (which can be found online or at specialty stores), and the right toppings. You can make your own versions of ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade, or purchase them pre-made.

To assemble your hot dog, start with a steamed or grilled bun (ideally, one that has a split top). Place the sausage inside the bun, then drizzle on the condiments as desired. Some additional toppings you can try include fried onions, raw onions, crispy bacon bits, or even grated cheese.

Despite their simplicity, Icelandic hot dogspack a flavor punch that is sure to impress. Whether you’re visiting Iceland and trying them for the first time, or whipping up a batch at home, you’ll quickly see why they’ve become such a beloved staple of Scandinavian cuisine.

Certainly! Icelandic remoulade, known locally as “remúlaði,” is a beloved condiment in Iceland, often served alongside various dishes such as fish and seafood. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try at home:

Don’t Miss The Toppings! Icelandic Remoulade Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweet relish
  • 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet relish, chopped capers, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, and curry powder. Stir until well combined.

  2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the capers and sweet relish might already add some saltiness to the remoulade, so adjust accordingly.

  3. Add the finely chopped onion and celery to the mixture. These vegetables add texture and flavor to the remoulade.

  4. Mix everything together until the onions and celery are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

  5. Taste the remoulade and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more vinegar for extra tanginess, sugar for sweetness, or curry powder for a stronger flavor.

  6. Once you’re happy with the taste, transfer the remoulade to a serving bowl or jar. Cover it and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

  7. Serve the Icelandic remoulade alongside your favorite dishes, such as fried fish, seafood, or as a dipping sauce for fries.

Enjoy your homemade Icelandic remoulade! Adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences, as remoulade recipes can vary slightly from one household to another.

Hot Dog Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 8 hot dog buns
  • 8 Icelandic hot dogs(also called “Pylsur”)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • ½ cup sweet mustard
  • 1/2 cup remoulade sauce (or tartar sauce)
  • 1/2 cup crispy fried onions

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill or grill pan on medium-high heat.
  2. Grill the hot dogs for 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked, turning them occasionally to cook evenly on all sides.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and sweet mustard to make a sauce.
  4. Spread the remoulade sauce on the inside of each hot dog bun.
  5. Add a grilled hot dog to each bun.
  6. Drizzle the ketchup-mustard sauce over the hot dog and top it with chopped onions and crispy fried onions.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your Scandinavian Icelandic hot dogs!