Chicago-style relish

Chicago-style relish is a type of relish that is a staple of Chicago-style hot dogs. It is characterized by its bright green color and sweet, tangy flavor.

History

The origins of Chicago-style relish are closely tied to the history of the Chicago-style hot dog. The hot dog, introduced to Chicago by German immigrants in the late 19th century, quickly became a popular street food. Vendors began adding various toppings to differentiate their products, and by the early 20th century, the "Chicago-style" hot dog - topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun - had emerged.

The bright green relish used on these hot dogs is believed to have been introduced by the Vienna Beef company, a major supplier of hot dogs in Chicago. The company's recipe for the relish, which includes cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, and a blend of spices, has remained a closely guarded secret.

Preparation and Use

Chicago-style relish is made from diced cucumbers, which are then pickled in a sweet and tangy brine. The brine typically includes vinegar, sugar, and a blend of spices. The relish's distinctive bright green color is achieved through the addition of food coloring.

In addition to its use on hot dogs, Chicago-style relish is also commonly used as a condiment on other types of sandwiches, as well as in salads and other dishes.

See Also

• Chicago-style hot dog
• Vienna Beef
• Relish