{summer bbq gourmet hot dog bar video}

A few weeks back, I flew out to LA from Chicago to shoot two fun videos with Hebrew National- one of which centered around ideas for an easy yet chic summer BBQ (the other video will be out later this summer and I cannot wait to share the theme for that one!!).  You guys know I love a good DIY toppings bar, whether it's a grilled cheese situation or a slider bar, so for the video we came up with the idea to do a gourmet hot dog bar.  Instead of slaving away making each guest's hot dog to their specifications, simply grill up some hot dogs and toast some fresh buns then let you guests do the rest of the work creating an interesting flavor combos from your toppings bar.  The sky's the limit with toppings, but a handful of interesting sauces such as salsas or spicy ketchup alongside fresh veggies like avocado or red onions is a great place to start.  A fun place to find inspiration for toppings is to look up your favorite gourmet sandwich shop's menu and use some of their flavor combos.  Check out the video above for more details as well as three of my favorite flavor combos for a gourmet hot dog bar.  

While celebrating the 4th this past weekend with family and friends in Huntington Beach, we even whipped up a few of the Banh Mi style hot dogs inspired by the video.  I have always loved Banh Mi sandwiches ever since a friend introduced me to Lee's back in high school (thank god a great spot for Banh Mi opened around the corner from our new place!).  Recipe and directions for a Banh Mi dog at the end of this post! 

Banh Mi Hot Dog

what you need:

• Hebrew National Bun length hot dogs
• hot dog buns
• one white onion
• 1 cup vinegar
• cilantro
• jalapeño
• shredded carrots
• Hunts Ketchup
• cucumber

1. Slice the white onion and place in a bowl with the vinegar for at least an hour to pickle.  Drain vinegar and place in individual serving bowl. 
2. Chop cilantro, cucumber, and jalapeño.  Place in individual serving bowls. 
3. Grill up hot dogs and lightly toast buns. 
4. Allow guests to create their own or you can plate their Banh Mi hot dogs for them by placing a spoonful carrots, onions and cucumber along the bun topped with a few jalapeno slices, two pinches of cilantro and ketchup if desired!
5. Enjoy!

With grilling season upon us, everyone is craving an all-American hot dog. What makes a kosher hot dog different? It's all about what makes the cut (and what doesn't). Hebrew National is choosy about what goes into their franks – only 100% pure kosher beef so you know what you’re getting and they taste great.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Hebrew National via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Hebrew National.