Vienna Beef Hot Dog

Vienna Beef hot dog is a sausage variety manufactured by Vienna Beef Inc., mainly used in the iconic Chicago-style hot dog. It consists of at least 75% ground bull beef, garlic juice, salt, paprika, and a secret blend of flavorings and seasoning, all encased in the natural sheep intestine.

But what sets it apart is the high quality of said ingredients and a unique production process — only premium cuts of beef are slow-cooked to perfection and then smoked to bring out their flavor. Vienna Beef Inc. was founded in 1893 by Viennese immigrants Emil Reichel and Sam Ladany, who were selling hot dogs with Viennese sausages during Chicago World's Fair.

Their quality product, famous for its distinctive "snap" denoting natural casing and high quality of the meat inside, soon rose in popularity and, by the beginning of the 20th century, became a staple in The Windy City. Although it's most commonly enjoyed as a hot dog, Vienna Beef hot dog can also be added to casseroles, chilis, or stir-fries.