White hot

White hot dog exterior detail

White hot dog interior detail

Coney Island hot dog from American Coney Island in Detroit

Flint coney island

The white hot is a regional variation of the hot dog found primarily in Rochester, New York, as well as other parts of Western New York and Central New York. It is distinguished by its pale color, derived from the absence of smoking or curing. The white hot is composed of a blend of uncured and unsmoked pork, beef, and veal. Its unique recipe often includes mustard, spices, and a dairy component such as nonfat dry milk.

History

The white hot was created in the 1920s by Max Russer, a German immigrant and butcher in Rochester, New York. Russer developed the white hot as a "white and porky," initially catering to Rochester's German-American community. His store on Maple and Ames Streets in Rochester became a hub for the new sausage.

Originally, white hots were a more affordable alternative to the pricier red hot dogs, utilizing less desirable cuts of meat and various fillers. Over time, the recipe evolved to include higher-quality meats, and modern white hots are often priced higher than standard hot dogs.

Production and Popularity

One of the most prominent producers of white hots is Zweigle's, a family-owned company based in Rochester. Zweigle's began producing white hots in 1925 and became widely known after securing a contract to supply the sausages at Red Wing Stadium. The company remains a leading name in white hots and continues to be associated with the region's culinary identity.

In the Syracuse, New York area, Hofmann Sausage Company produces a similar product called "Snappy Grillers," which has also gained regional popularity. Another notable producer is Hartmann Sausage Company, which manufactures white hots for niche markets.

White hots have gained some national attention as the official hot dog of several sports teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, Rochester Americans, and Rochester Rhinos. They were also featured as the official hot dog of the Washington Nationals during the team's inaugural season in Major League Baseball.

Characteristics

The white hot's distinctive pale color comes from its uncured and unsmoked preparation. The blend of pork, beef, and veal is complemented by mustard, spices, and dairy, resulting in a mildly seasoned and juicy sausage. White hots are typically grilled or seared, which enhances their flavor and creates prominent sear marks.

Nutritional Information

A typical white hot (approx. 100 grams) contains:

• Calories: ~250-300 kcal
• Protein: ~12-15 grams
• Fat: ~20 grams (includes 8-10 grams of saturated fat)
• Carbohydrates: ~2-4 grams
• Cholesterol: ~50-70 mg
• Sodium: ~400-600 mg

Nutritional values vary slightly depending on the brand and preparation method.

Recipes

Grilled White Hot with Mustard and Relish

• Ingredients:
  • 4 white hots
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • Dijon mustard
  • Sweet pickle relish
• Instructions:
• 1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
• 2. Place white hots on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until seared.
• 3. Toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
• 4. Assemble by placing the white hot in the bun, adding mustard and relish to taste.
• 5. Serve immediately.

White Hot Garbage Plate

The Garbage Plate is a popular dish in Rochester, often featuring white hots. Ingredients:

• • 2 white hots
  • Home fries
  • Macaroni salad
  • Onions
  • Meat sauce

Instructions:

• 1. Grill or pan-fry the white hots until cooked through.
• 2. On a large plate, add a portion of home fries and macaroni salad as a base.
• 3. Place the white hots on top.
• 4. Garnish with chopped onions and meat sauce.
• 5. Serve with a side of ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce.

Cultural Significance

White hots hold a special place in the culinary culture of Rochester and Western New York. They are a staple at local barbecues, diners, and sporting events, and their association with the region's sports teams has further solidified their iconic status.

See Also

• Weisswurst - A white German sausage made primarily from veal, traditional in Bavaria.
• Medister - A sweet white Danish sausage made from pork and suet.
• Hot dog variations
• List of regional dishes of the United States
• Hot dog
• Zweigle's
• Rochester, New York

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