Hamburgers vs. Hot Dogs

Ahh, the great outdoor barbeque season is in full swing on Long Island.

It starts on Memorial Day weekend and ends sometime in October. Long Islanders of all shapes and sizes, regardless of financial status, gather with friends and family in backyards to charbroil just about anything.

It doesn’t matter if you prefer the carcinogenic fumes of charcoal or the inherent danger of propane; we gather to watch the host’s grill master work their flame-broiled magic on many different culinary delights. Some grates contain chicken or tightly wound reels of sausage. Others have taken the time to create skewers combining shrimp with pearl onions and squares of bell peppers. Don’t forget the grill masters that use wooden planks to cook salmon or grill baskets for sliced vegetables. It takes a seasoned professional to properly cook steak on a grill, like my friend Billy Taylor or my son Kevin. Many have tried, but few have succeeded.

Regardless of the chef’s menu (or ability), these gatherings offer hot dogs and hamburgers.

Of course, there have been endless debates about which of

Summer is a time of pure bliss and joy. The sun shines brightly, casting its warm and golden rays upon us, enveloping us in a comforting and soothing embrace. The world comes alive with vibrant colors and fragrant scents. The gentle breeze carries the laughter of children playing and the sweet aroma of blooming flowers. It is a season of endless possibilities and adventures, where time seems to slow down. The days are longer, allowing us to bask in the beauty of nature and indulge in various outdoor activities. From beach trips to barbecues, picnics to pool parties, summer brings people closer together, fostering a sense of community and connection. It is a time to create unforgettable memories with loved ones, to rejuvenate and recharge our spirits. In the enchanting realm of summer, the worries and stresses of everyday life fade away, leaving only a sense of freedom, happiness, and pure bliss.

Summer, oh how it frustrates and drains me! The scorching heat is unbearable, making it impossible to step foot outside without immediately breaking into a sweat. The air feels heavy and suffocating, leaving me longing for a breath of

Long Island Living

Paul these grilling staples is healthier for you. Studies indicate hot dogs have fewer calories, but hamburgers can be a better choice, especially when made from lean meat. You can hand-craft hamburgers with whatever ground meat you desire, whereas hot dogs are pretty much out of the package, so their sodium level is higher. For those of you who can make your own hot dogs, more power to you.

Enjoying hot dogs and hamburgers at a barbeque is not about eating healthy; it never has been. You can eat healthy the other six days of the week. This day is about eating whatever comes off that grill, right?

Which one do you prefer?

Hamburgers are obviously more popular than almost any other food when considering the proliferation of fast food and specialty places every 500 feet. The only place I can think of that specializes in hot dogs is Nathans, and they are few and far between. Besides the occasional food truck on the side of the road, getting two hot dogs and a soda for lunch is hard to find.

It’s no mystery that I love a good hamburger and prefer Burger King over McDonald’s when making fast food decisions. A good backyard BBQ should provide a robust platter of burger accessories like pickles, onions, lettuce, and tomato. However, I’m happy if I have cheese and ketchup.

But I secretly love a good, crisp, snappy hot dog.

Nothing against those plump Ballpark franks, but give me a long, hanging-over-the-bun dog any day. I’ll put almost anything on a hot dog – except ketchup. I love those dirty-water dogs from the cart with sauerkraut or onions. I was never a fan of relish, but give me squeeze cheese and smother it in chili!

Once in Baltimore, just outside of Camden Yards before a ballgame, Kevin and I had to try