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Reindeer hot dogs are making a splash at Fredhots and Fries in Glenview, Ill. And while the ballpark innovation is confusing to kids (the excited tot in this video thinks that these are the hotdogs Santa feeds to his reindeer, not the ones he makes out of them), the dogs are supposedly firmer, and better tasting than the average frank. If you’re making a pilgrimage to Fredhots to get a bunful of Rudolph, better make it quick, though. The meaty treats are only here for the holiday season, and won’t be back till next year. Link via CNN.
Are they kosher?
posted by Sheldon Siegel on 12-13-2006 at 10:43 am
Yes, reindeer fit the rules of kosher. Found it by googling “reindeer kosher”. However, it would have to be slaughtered by following Jewish law. It is not clear whether this can be done on wild animals without damaging them (which would make the slaughtered aniaml non kosher). I know they have figured out a way to do it with venison, in the last 25 years.
posted by Stew on 12-13-2006 at 11:14 am
Being a seasoned traveler to Alaska, I’ve noticed that Reindeer redhots are fairly common. In fact they are more than worth the extra two bucks! Whale blubber, meat and heart on the other hand are terrible eating, but thats another story altogether.
posted by Michael on 12-13-2006 at 12:44 pm
My Dad has lived in Alaska for many years, and I have had reindeer sausages/hot dogs many times. they are quite tasty, if you can get past the whole Rudolph thing.
As for the kosher question, it is my understanding that some domestic reindeer herds are kept similar to cattle herds here in the lower 48 and culled and processed for their meat, again not unlike cattle. So, it would seem reasonable that one could monitor these domestic herds and their processing and follow the laws to be declared kosher.
posted by Dianna on 12-14-2006 at 10:39 am
I created the business called “Reindeer Redhots” in Sitka Alaska and sold it last year before moving down to the lower 48 states. The reindeer dogs made by Indian Valley Meats are made with reindeer (a domesticated caribou) and are blended with beef and pork. This hot dog is not kosher. The hot dog is by far the best I’ve ever eaten. I served it with an array of condiments including Kraut, Nacho Cheese, Chili, Dill spears, relish, red onion, tomato slices, mustard (spicy and regular), ketchup, horseradish, sport peppers, celery salt and thousand island dressings. The dogs came in 2 types, the 1/4 lb. regular reindeer dog and a longer sausage flavored reindeer dog served in a timberline roll. The variety of condiments allowed for a different dog every day of the week!
Since the new ownership, I’m unaware of the variety offered. However, the trip to Sitka, Alaska is worth it regardless. Nothing says Alaska like eating a Reindeer Redhot on the corner of Lincoln and Lake streets while looking out over the ocean and snow capped mountains!
Enjoy!
posted by Laura on 12-28-2006 at 12:07 pm