National Hot Dog Day

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Break out the barbecue and grill up some franks for national hot dog day. Whether you use charcoal or gas, make sure the sausages are sizzling on July 18.

 “The best way to prepare a hot dog is obviously on the grill, because that’s where you’re going to get the best taste out of it,” said Nick Murtaugh, grillmaster at Casey’s Foods.

The good news is they’re one of the easiest things to make on the grill. Unless you burn it black, it’s hard to mess up a hot dog.

“And as we’ve been talking, these guys have been cooking back here and they’re just about done. Only takes like a couple minutes,” said Murtaugh.

From there, it’s time to pick a bun and toppings. The Chicago style dog packs yellow mustard, onion, relish, sport peppers, tomatoes, a pickle spear, and celery salt all into a poppy seed bun.

And while many people say ketchup on a hot dog is unthinkable, even some seasoned grillers can admit they sometimes break the rules.

“Contrary to all Chicago belief, I like to put ketchup on mine,” said Murtaugh. “I know it’s a sin, but that’s how I like it. Throw a little bit of raw onions on there as well, but also you can’t go wrong with just mustard.”

So no matter how you like your hot dogs, make sure to enjoy one when the dog has its day.

Naperville News 17’s Casey Krajewski reports.