Ditch The Bun For A Light And Crisp Hot Dog Wrapping Instead

Game days and picnics almost feel incomplete unless you've got a hot dog on hand. What a joy it is biting into this indulgent treat and relishing the savory taste as it melts onto your taste buds. The sausage and condiments, of course, bring all the flavor-bursting goodness, but it's the bun that gives it that ultra-filling quality. For those who like it light and crisp, simply ditch the bread bun and opt for lettuce instead. A no-bun hot dog doesn't sound all that appealing, but give it a try and you'll find this refreshing, low-carb twist is no less enjoyable than the original hot dog.

It goes without saying that swapping out the buns for lettuce makes a huge change in the hot dog's taste and texture. In place of the bun's usual mild sweetness is a natural, earthy tone — a stark contrast to the hot dog's meaty richness. Its freshness uplifts the heavy undertone, keeping the palate light enough to savor all the nuances the fillings have to offer. Along with that is a crispiness that encases the tender, juicy sauce-soaked sausage inside. Although nothing like the bun's signature pillowy softness, it's still an absolute delight to bite into, even more so when backed by the extraordinary flavors.

Putting together the perfect hot dog lettuce wrap starts with choosing the right type of lettuce. You'll want something with sturdy and crispy leaves to hold the substantial fillings (sauces included) without turning soggy. Not only that, the surface area should also be wide enough to accommodate the sausages and other additional ingredients. Romaine lettuce and its oblong leaves are particularly popular for hot dog wraps. With a large, almost oval shape and a crunchy yet tender bite, Bibb lettuce is another excellent choice. Additionally, you can go with Boston, Batavia, or loose-leaf lettuce.

All that's left is the fillings. Hot dog staples such as sausages, bacon, and chopped veggies are all welcome aboard. Over top, add a drizzle of mustard and ketchup like always, relish pickles, onions, and tomatoes to embody that Chicago-style rendition, or perhaps shredded cheese, corn, sliced jalapeños, etc.

From there on, feel free to explore beyond the basic options. In true lettuce wrap spirit, don't be afraid to include a whole rainbow of vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, or coleslaw. The sausage itself is also full of options, with chicken dog, turkey dog, or even veggie dog for a vegetarian version. As for the condiment, pair barbecue sauce with grilled sausage for a summery taste in every bite. Other than that, go for sweet chili sauce, garlic aioli, or chutney if you want to try something a bit different.