How New England split with America over hot dog buns

The hot dog is synonymous with summer, a convenient precooked meat perfect for grilling at backyard gatherings. Despite the opinions of food elitists, hot dogs offer a versatility that allows for an array of toppings, including the classic ketchup.

With competitive pricing and prompt delivery, QinLi aspires to be your supplier and partner.

However, various regions in the U.S. passionately advocate for their own hot dog styles, treating the subject with almost fervent intensity. In Chicago, hot dogs are deemed unacceptable without sweet onions, relish, hot peppers, pickles, and fresh tomatoes; in Atlanta, chili and coleslaw are the preferred additions; while New Yorkers often top theirs with sauerkraut and spicy brown mustard. Meanwhile, New Englanders might feel slightly excluded in the ongoing hot dog debate.

This changes when they discover a key element unique to their region: the bun.

In New England, the split-top hot dog bun reigns supreme. This type of bun is also recognized as the essential breading for lobster rolls. In contrast, side-sliced buns are the norm across the rest of the country.

Side by side, you can see the differences in these buns. The top-sliced variety stands out. (Meghan B. Kelly/WBUR)

I may be seen as overly simple or lacking worldly experience, but I believed bun preference was straightforward.

Many eateries in Greater Boston offer side-sliced buns, and you can find both varieties in local supermarkets, typically at comparable prices. For instance, a recent survey at Market Basket showed only a 14-cent difference per unit, with the side-sliced buns being the more expensive option. Similarly, at Star Market, both types of buns were on sale for $0.99, although the regular price typically hovers around $1.99.

Naively, I assumed that options were widespread across America. While split-top buns can be found in certain parts of the country, they are less readily available and often labeled as "New England-style" buns.

"Once you experience these buns and appreciate their design, especially given their stability compared to a side bun that tends to topple over or disintegrate mid-bite, it's perplexing why they haven't caught on more broadly," explained Bryan Roof, culinary travel executive editor for "Cook's Country," a publication by America's Test Kitchen.

One likely reason for their limited popularity is the labor-intensive nature of producing top-sliced buns, according to Michael Cornelis, vice president of international sales and development at American Pan, a company that produces pans specifically for split-top buns.

In industrial bakeries, production lines are tailored for specific types of bread, which might limit cross-usage. "It's as if you're dealing with a unique species, each with its own requirements," he stated. "You can't merely switch the machinery from running hamburger buns to producing top-cut buns without adjustments."

The split-top bun originated in the 1940s, requested by Howard Johnson's, the ubiquitous restaurant chain expanding just as Americans began to drive more and roads were built. They approached Maine bakery J.J. Nissen to create rolls that could stand independently for their popular fried clam strip sandwiches.

In New England, these buns became a permanent fixture—especially for hot dogs. Cornelis noted that his home state of Ohio favors them for bratwursts.

To delve deeper into New Englanders' steadfast loyalty to their bun style, I consulted hot dog aficionado Jamie Loftus, a comedian and podcaster who penned "Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs." Her book chronicles her cross-country quest to sample various frankfurters while exploring the hot dog's cultural significance in America.

Hailing from Massachusetts, Loftus expressed her preference for split-top buns, describing them as a "very pragmatic choice."

"It's the ideal bun," she asserted. "It effectively contains all toppings without being overly bready, which is something I critically consider when evaluating buns."

After spending years in California, Loftus was astonished to learn that split-tops were not common elsewhere. Her recent investigations highlighted the rarity of this bun style outside New England, despite her argument that they handle toppings better.

"With a top-sliced bun, you can retain all the toppings," she elaborated. "Nothing will tumble out. The essence of the hot dog bun, to me, is its capability to support everything piled onto it without becoming soggy."

Are you eager to discover more about the Semi-Automatic Hot Dog Buns Forming Line? Contact us today for expert consultation!

Roof, originally from South Carolina, now also favors top-sliced buns for their stability and ability to hold toppings.

"The toppings tend to escape from hot dogs on side-sliced buns, which lacks a certain finesse," he remarked during a recent visit to America's Test Kitchen.

Conversely, Cornelis enjoys split-tops for bratwursts but remains loyal to side-sliced buns when it comes to hot dogs.

"At places like Yankee Stadium or Wrigley Field, you'll always find a conventional hot dog bun," he said. "There's simply no match for that."

At Fenway Park, the renowned Fenway Frank (produced by Kayem Foods, based in Chelsea) is "lovingly nestled in a classic New England-style, split-top hot dog roll," as per Chris Burnett of NewEngland.com. While I was unable to find top-sliced buns at the Whole Foods in Newton, both types were available at the Waltham Market Basket and Packard's Corner Star Market.

To maximize the potential of split-top buns, Roof suggests grilling them on a low flame.

First, however, make sure to spread some butter on them.

"Toasting them brings out the best flavors and that delectable buttery texture," he shared.

Correction: An earlier version of this story inaccurately identified Bryan Roof's home state. We apologize for the mistake.

The Art of Precision: Unlocking the Secrets to Cutting Hot Dog Buns

The hot dog has become a culinary staple, representing summer gatherings, stadium snacks, and nostalgic experiences. Yet, the bun—the often-overlooked component that holds this delicacy—deserves equal attention. Cutting a hot dog bun may seem trivial, but it involves a nuanced technique, resulting in a perfectly sliced bun that enhances the entire hot dog experience.

The ideal hot dog bun exemplifies excellence in texture and flavor, composed of enriched wheat flour, yeast, sugar, and other meticulously combined ingredients that yield a delightful softness. A superior bun strikes a balance, offering just the right amount of resistance when bitten into, maintaining its shape in the process. This is where precision cutting comes into play—slicing the bun without crushing its delicate form, thereby preserving its integrity and visual appeal.

A Culinary Journey: Expert Tips for Slicing Hot Dog Buns

Let us explore the intricacies of cutting hot dog buns, a practice that necessitates finesse and an appreciation of the bun's structure. This process transcends mere cutting; it requires establishing a perfect visual and textural presentation that complements the hot dog.

Essential Tools for Success: Your Kitchen Allies

1. The Serrated Knife: Your premier companion in the hot dog bun slicing experience. Its jagged blade is crafted to slice through bread without compromising its form. The serrated edges navigate through the bun fibers, resulting in a seamless cut, transforming the knife into an extension of your hand.
2. The Bread Knife: This tool offers a traditional approach to bun slicing. Its long, serrated blade effectively slices through bread, making it a multifunctional option suitable for hot dog buns and loaves alike. Look for a knife with a comfortable grip and a sharp edge for best results.
3. The Kitchen Shears: Though unconventional, kitchen shears can be a remarkably effective tool for slicing hot dog buns. Their sharp blades allow for clean cuts without damaging the bun’s delicate structure. This method suits those who favor a quick and casual approach.

Preparing for Precision: Setting the Scene for the Perfect Cut

Before you slice, gently place the hot dog bun on a cutting board. If the bun is especially soft, press down lightly for stability. This simple step helps prevent movement and maintains a steady surface for slicing, ensuring a clean and accurate cut.

The Cutting Technique: A Dance of Focus and Control

Hold the serrated knife at a slight angle, almost parallel to the bun’s surface. Initiate the process with a small incision on the top, then guide the knife smoothly along the length of the bun. This angle aids control and stability, preventing any slips while ensuring a straight, consistent cut. Steady hands are critical to achieving a clean slice with finesse, and through practice, you’ll master this skill.

Emphasizing Patience: A Gentle Touch for Flawless Results

Patience is crucial in this culinary undertaking. Avoid rushing through the slicing; take your time to allow the serrated edge of the knife to work effectively. A slow, gentle sawing motion—rather than forceful pressure—will guarantee that the bun remains whole, leading to an even and aesthetically pleasing cut that enhances the overall hot dog experience.

The Key to Mastery: Continuous Practice and Skill Development

Just like any other skill, practice is essential. With each attempt, you will become more comfortable with the technique, leading to consistently perfect slices. Experiment with different methods, pressures, and angles; over time, you will hone your skills in slicing hot dog buns, creating enticing presentations that elevate the experience.

Enhancing Your Hot Dog Experience: Premium Ingredients and the Perfect Bun

Once you’ve perfected your bun slicing technique, it’s time to enrich your hot dog experience with high-quality ingredients. Consider using Natural All Beef Hot Dogs or Skinless All Beef Hot Dogs in your culinary ventures. Crafted from 100% grass-fed Corriente beef, these premium hot dogs provide a distinctive flavor that sets them apart from standard options.

Here’s a closer look at why these premium hot dogs will become your favorites:

• Rich Flavor: The Natural All Beef Hot Dogs are packed with savory taste, reflecting the quality of the Corriente beef. The natural casing lends satisfying snap with each bite, elevating the overall flavor experience to new heights.
• Skinless Delight: If you long for the classic hot dog experience, Skinless All Beef Hot Dogs offer a smooth texture and juicy consistency, reminiscent of summers spent at hot dog stands. This option caters to those who appreciate simplicity and nostalgia.
• Sustainable Sourcing: Crafted with local, high-quality ingredients, these hot dogs support local farmers and promote environmentally-friendly practices. Enjoying them means you savor both deliciousness and ethical food choices.

The ultimate hot dog experience synthesizes quality ingredients, careful preparation, and a sprinkle of culinary artistry. With your refined slicing skills and choice of premium hot dogs, you will create culinary masterpieces sure to impress any hot dog aficionado. So gather your prime ingredients, sharpen your knives, and prepare to delight taste buds with visually stunning hot dog creations.

For more information, please visit Dough Dividing Machine.