Deconstructing Hot Dogs: Is It Really a Sandwich or Not?
Hot dogs are a popular American food that has been around for over a century. At its core, a hot dog consists of a sausage, usually made of beef or pork, placed inside a sliced bun. However, there has been a long-standing debate about whether hot dogs qualify as a sandwich. In this article, we will deconstruct hot dogs and examine the arguments for and against their classification as a sandwich.
The Definition of a Sandwich
Before determining whether a hot dog is a sandwich, we must first define what a sandwich is. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a sandwich is “two or more slices of bread or a split roll having a filling in between.” This definition seems straightforward enough, but it leaves room for interpretation.
The Case for Hot Dogs as Sandwiches
Some people argue that hot dogs are sandwiches by pointing out that a hot dog consists of a sausage placed inside a bread cut in half. The “two slices of bread” that are required for the definition of a sandwich are represented here by the bun, and the filling is the sausage. In addition, sandwiches are where you’ll typically see hot dogs listed on the menus of most restaurants and other culinary venues.
Another point in favor of using hot dogs in sandwiches is the precedent that has been established by other dishes of a similar nature. For instance, a submarine sandwich, often known as a sub, is made up of a roll or baguette that has meats, cheeses, and veggies stuffed inside it. Since the sub is generally understood to be a type of sandwich, it would make sense to put a hot dog in the same category as a sandwich.
The Case Against Hot Dogs as Sandwiches
On the other hand, individuals who argue against the classification of hot dogs as sandwiches point to the fact that the bun is not sliced all the way through as the primary justification for their variation. This is the conventional method of slicing the bread for a sandwich, which results in two distinct pieces of bread. The bun that surrounds a hot dog is merely cut in half along its length, but it is kept joined on one side.
Another reason why hot dogs do not make good sandwiches is that they are often consumed with condiments such as ketchup and mustard and relish when they are eaten out in public. These condiments are more commonly used on hot dogs than they are on sandwiches because sandwiches are not their primary application.
Conclusion
So, is a hot dog a sandwich? The answer is not black and white. While the definition of a sandwich does allow for some interpretation, the fact that the bun is not sliced all the way through and that hot dogs are typically eaten with condiments not found on sandwiches make a strong case against their classification as sandwiches.
On the other hand, considering that a hot dog comprises a filling that is placed inside of sliced bread and that many restaurants classify hot dogs as sandwiches, there is a compelling argument to be made for defining it as such. It’s possible that, in the end, a person’s own judgment and preference will determine whether or not a hot dog can be considered a sandwich.
If you are craving one of the best hot dogs in Valparaiso, IN, look no further than our delectable menu here at George’s Gyros Spot. We serve Chicago dogs, Italian beef, gyros, polish dogs, and cheeseburgers. Check out our menu online and order our freshly-made gyros and hot dogs, perfectly cooked and prepared with quality in mind!