Do Germans Like American Hot Dogs?

Honestly, nobody in Germany would ever call a hot dog a Frankfurter. That term, an Austrian name, refers to what we called a Wiener, which was named after the capital of Austria. However, the Germans have something far better: Wurst, a broad term in German for sausage. There are many different types of wurst, each with its own unique flavors, making German cuisine a delightful exploration for food enthusiasts.

The Origin of Hot Dogs

Interestingly, the concept of hot dogs originated in Germany, specifically in the city of Frankfurt. The Frankfurter in your hot dog is named after this German city, indicating that the idea of serving a sausage in a bun was likely a German invention. It's fascinating to think about how this cuisine spread from Europe to America and then around the world.

German Attitude Toward American Hot Dogs

The Germans have a saying: “Sie sind das schlimmste.” (literally translated as "They are the worst"). This attitude towards American hot dogs is quite common. One of the main reasons for this is the strict food safety regulations imposed by the European Union (EU). In most circumstances, American sausages, including hot dogs, cannot be imported into the EU due to food safety concerns. As a result, it's quite likely that most Germans have never even tasted an American hot dog.

Alternative German Sausages

Instead of American-style hot dogs, Germans enjoy a wide variety of wurst options that cater to different palates. Some popular examples include:

Berliner Wurst: A smoked sausage that is typically served with mustard and pickled red cabbage. Kalbsbr?t: A lean, grilled pork sausage that is a staple of Bavarian cuisine. Berliner Bratwurst: A type of pork sausage that is often served with a side of mustard, red cabbage, and boiled potatoes.

These sausages, along with many others, are a testament to the diverse and rich culinary tradition in Germany. While the hot dog may not be as prevalent in Germany, the strong attachment to traditional wurst ensures that there's always a satisfying alternative for those with a taste for sausages.

Conclusion

So, do Germans like American hot dogs? While the concept of a hot dog isn't entirely foreign to them, due to its German origins and the import restrictions, the chances of a typical German experiencing an American hot dog are slim. However, the overwhelming love for wurst certainly fills the gap and allows for a delightful culinary exploration within the borders of Germany. Whether you're a sausagemaster (wurstmeister) yourself or just a food lover, Germany's wurst tradition offers a wealth of flavors to savor.