One stick, one dog, some corn batter and a quick deep-fry until golden brown. No, I did not just describe an angel, but in fact, a corn dog. The corn dog is arguably America’s greatest food creation (back off, Dino Nuggets!).
This delectable treat appears across a spectrum of locations nationwide. C-Dog always has your back, whether fending off after school hunger or supporting stoner snacking; the corn dog is definitely not just fair food. Yes, hot dogs, pigs in a blanket, bagel dogs and pretzel dogs are all respectable wiener varieties, but no dog option comes close to the power and versatility of king corn dog.
I’m sure you have been wondering for years where this magical mix of corn and dog originated, or maybe just a little curious about where to buy hot dog’s clearly better looking cousin. Well, not to worry; I have all of the facts to cure anyone’s corn dog fever.
1. The Corn Dog was patented in 1927.
God bless you, Stanley S. Jenkins, you sweet angel baby. Despite many individuals trying to take credit for this food invention, Jenkins holds the patent of the corn dog.
Many people attribute Neil Fletcher with the creation of this match made in heaven at the Texas State Fair in 1942, but Stanley Jenkins was a few steps ahead. Pronto Pups of the Minnesota State Fair also claims to have invented the corn dog in 1941. Today, corn dog’s original inventor remains one of the world's most heated food debates.
2. The Texas State Fair sells 630,000 corn dogs per season (which is only 24 days).
I think it is safe to say Texans love their corn dogs. 630,000 corn dogs equates to 600,000 pounds of wieners, 25 tons of cornmeal mix, 21,000 pounds of oil, 1,500 gallons of mustard and 800 gallons of Ketchup.
Although, according to Fletchers Corn Dogs of Texas, mustard is the only approved condiment to pair with your dog and ketchup users are frowned upon.
3. Corn Dogs are a healthy choice—well, sort of.
Compared to other calorie-laden food items at the fair like funnel cakes and mega turkey legs, our fine friend the corn dog averages out around 225 calories. I think that’s more than enough of a reason to indulge in two… or five.
4. National Corn Dog Day is March 19th.
Corn dogs have their own day. The year was 1992 when this battered, deep-fried dog got its own holiday. Presently, people now celebrate in over 30 states, the District of Columbia and Australia.
This national celebration of meat on a stick is often associated with Basketball’s March Madness and events have been sponsored by Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer and Foster Farm Chicken. Cheers to our best gal, the corn dog.
5. The American Classic Corn dog and Japanese sushi have recently been crossed to create the spicy tuna corn dog.
Finally, the struggle of deciding between sushi and corn dogs is over and a high key food dilemma is solved by this bold fusion. Imagine a spicy tuna roll, on a stick, dipped in corn batter and deep-fried. This is truly culinary art in its best form. You can even make this Japanese pup at home.
6. Corn dogs are not just an American staple.
It is no surprise that Americans are not the only one’s who love corn dogs. Argentina calls corn dogs "panchukers" and enjoys them with cheese. Australians will often use a white or wheat-based batter on their dogs known as "Dagwood dogs, Pluto pups or dippy dogs" depending on the region. New Zealand, South Korea and Japan are also known to enjoy this American indulgence.
7. It is possible to win $2500 by eating corn dogs.
Are you trying to get rich quick? Well, eating corn dogs could be the answer to your financial woes. Head to the annual California State Fair, fill out an application, liability waiver and qualify in the top ten of the preliminary competition and the money could be yours! Shout out to this year’s 1st place winner for taking down 32 corn dogs in eight minutes—a true corn dog eating wizard.
8. In August 2016, a lawsuit was filed against a bar in Albuquerque, New Mexico for promoting a corn dog eating contest-induced death.
An event in 2016 can be credited as corn dog’s darkest moment. A woman died while participating in a corn dog eating competition at a local bar. So, before entering in one of these eating events, think twice about the possible consequences and err on the side of safety by chewing thoroughly. Officials warn against mixing heavy drinking and eating competitions.
9. Jimmy Dean sells a breakfast variety of corn dog.
Corn dogs for breakfast seem a touch abstract. But, thanks to Jimmy Dean Sausage, you can get your corn dog fix before noon. Jimmy Dean created the breakfast corn dog by dipping a sausage link in pancake batter… and boom! The pancake and sausage on a stick was born. Substitute mustard for maple syrup and you have a balanced breakfast on a stick.
10. A line of maple-scented corn dog related jewelry is available for purchase.
Sometimes just eating a corn dog doesn’t feel like enough to express your love affair with this deep-fried delicacy. Fear not, maple-scented corn dog necklaces and earrings are available for purchase starting at $28.00. Sporting one of these fine charms is sure to give you a festive look and keep your corn doggy morale high
