An Ephiphany

I work in Jersey City, and frequently have lunch by the corner of Newark and something avenue (can't remember the name). On this corner there is a hotdog vendor who speaks with a heavy accent and serves a wonderful 'dirty-water' dog. Now I am aware that the typical Dirty Water Dog ("Dog") is produced (can't think of an appropriate way to call it)by Sabrett (Marathon), and the Dog he serves is the typical Sabrett No. 12 simmered in hot water.

The reason for the long introduction is to relate to the fans of this site (I have been lurking here reading the threads in the dog and prime meat section for over a year)the fact that I have purchased from said hotdog vendor a 5lbs bag of Sabrett No.12. Those who have followed the writings of Saint John Fox know that unless one has a connection, it is IMPOSSIBLE to buy the No. 12 Sabrett from either supermarkets or warehouse brothels like BJ or Sam's Club. Under the circumstances, one can understand my excitement.

This story begins last week. Frustrated that my continued hints were getting me nowhere fast, I mentioned to said vendor, "my relatives are on parole for the Memorial day weekend and I would sure like to serve them your fine fare, my good sir, before their heading back to prison."

He just looked at me.

Last monday he finally said "Do you want to buy hotdogs from me?" I said "YES !!". So that is how it came to pass. I handed over $20 and he forked over a beautiful, angelic, innocent bag of Sabrett No. 12. They looked so lovely.

There really is no moral to this story and I suppose most people will think me weird (at work they definitely thought I had 'stepped over the edge'), but I know that a good hot dog is more than just a food. Its a DOG.

Robert and his now 4.25 lbs bag of no. 12 Sabrett

So it never crossed your mind to just ask him if you could buy a bag of dogs?

No. A hotdog vendor is in the business of selling individual hotdogs for (in his case) $1.50, not take on the role of a supermarket. If he were to charge me the same amount for the bag, as he would for selling individual dogs, it would be considerably more than the $20 he charged me. That and the fact that I had asked other vendors in the area and they were quite offended I would even dare ask.

If you'd already asked other vendors and got a little 'tude from them, then I can understand why you'd be hesitant to ask. I would be too.

Is it possible to freeze the unused portion of the bag? As much as I LOVE the dogs, I'm not sure I can finish off 5lbs in a week.

Thanks in advance for any helpful reply.

I do it all the time with Nathan's. I put them 4 at a time in small freezer bags. The individual portion thing.

I understand poverty and jail--don't ask!--, but another approach might have satisfied the need for "amenities": just offer to pay retail for the quantity you wanted, while at the same time indicating your need to save money. A happy medium might have been reached.

Please understand: I'm not criticizing, just speculating on a situation I haven't seen addressed on this board.

Hi,

I thought it was a good story. The old saying, "there is more than one way to skin a cat", comes into play. I have never had a Sabrett, heard they are great. The whole parole story is definately unique, what an angle! Well you got what you wanted. My goodness what some guys will do for a good hot dog! But like you said it's more than just food, it's a dog! Good story.

Hello tort2 ,

Welcome aboard and hope you decide to join us in the fall for our Jersey Hot Dog Tour hosted by John Fox who you've sainted to immortal Hot Dog Status . Deservedly so I might add .

If your relatives are still out on parole they may like to join us too , I'm sure we can accomodate them and their parole officer Hahahah.

Benzee

As long as I can get a "Ripper" from Rutts, I would love to see anybody stop me. Not even a court ordered injunction could stop me.

tort2,

Welcome to Roadfood! Glad to see that you are able to get the natural casing Sabretts. Did you know that Sabrett was originally from Jersey City? Cole and Henderson Streets. Although some supermarkets sell the natural casing 8 to a lb, I prefer the smaller size. 8,s normally would be ideal; and I like them for other brands, but for some reason the Sabrett 8's aren't as tightly packed as I would prefer.

A great place to get these dogs would be Restaurant Depot. If you are not a member (I'm not) you can borrow the card of a member. Or go in and get a 1 day pass. Restaurant Depot has Sabrett natural casing in 10, 11, and 12 to a lb sizes. And if that doesn't work out, I would suggest you take a ride to Dee's truck on Faitoute Ave. in Roselle Park. She serves the 10,s and will sell you a bag. Also a great dirty water dog. Fresh, hot, and tasty; she never lets the dogs sit too long in the water.

Thank you for your kind words of welcome all. The prospect of getting a one (1) day pass for Restaurant Depot and staring at the selection of Sabretts has me all excited. I may just soil myself.

As far as the Thumanns, I tried frying the brand you buy at the supermarkets (white and blue packaging) and they rip up somewhat nicely; however, since you frequently mention that the type meant for frying has ingredients not included in the supermarket variety, I think that obtaining the frying thumanns may be my next obsession.

Robert

Your best bet for obtaining the deep fryers would be to go to a deli or pizzeria that serves Thumann's coldcuts and ask the owner to include a bag with his next order. That's what I do. Or maybe go to the plant in Carlstadt if it's not too far from you. There are Sabrett distributors around. One is in Newark, another in Clifton. And another in Parlin. You don't need a membership to buy dogs at these places. A five lb bag of Sabrett's is between $17.00 and $18.00.

Tort.. I like your style! Glad to see another dog lover joing Roadfood! Welcome..

Tort, most commercial dogs have a two week shelf life. If you freeze them before the two week clock, they'll be good for at least 6 months. Once frozen, cook them as needed, without thawing.

CSD
Business Instructor
Hot Dog University

quote:

Originally posted by chicagostyledog

Tort, most commercial dogs have a two week shelf life. If you freeze them before the two week clock, they'll be good for at least 6 months. Once frozen, cook them as needed, without thawing.

CSD
Business Instructor
Hot Dog University

How do I apply for Hot Dog University?

ps: thanks for the info !!!

Tort, visit www.hotdogu.com. for information.

CSD

Business Instructor
Hot Dog University

Thanks !