A hot dog (frankfurter, wiener) is a moist sausage of soft, even texture and flavor, often made from meat slurry.[citation needed] Most types are fully cooked, cured or smoked. When served, it is usually hot, and is placed in a special purpose soft, sliced hot dog bun, although it is possible for them to be eaten alone. It may be garnished with mustard, ketchup, onion, mayonnaise, relish, cheese, bacon, chili or sauerkraut. The flavor can be similar to a range of meat products from bland bologna to spicy German bockwurst varieties. Hot dogs made from a range of meats are on the market, but Kosher or Halal hot dogs are typically made from beef, chicken or turkey.
Unlike other sausages which may be sold uncooked, hot dogs are precooked before packaging. Hot dogs can be eaten without additional cooking, although they are usually warmed before serving. Since even the unopened packaged hot dog can have bacteria it is safer to reheat them, which is especially important for pregnant women and those with suppressed immune systems.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_dog
