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The Completo, Chile’s unique take on the hot dog, is a vibrant celebration of flavours and textures that has earned its place in Chilean street food culture.
Much more than a simple snack, this hearty and colourful creation is a meal in itself, piled high with fresh toppings that reflect the country’s love for bold, satisfying food.
Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Santiago or relaxing by the coast in Valparaíso, the Completo is a must-try dish that captures the essence of Chilean comfort food.
What Is a Completo?
A Completo is essentially a hot dog, but in Chile, it’s elevated into something extraordinary. It starts with a soft, freshly baked bun that cradles a juicy sausage, typically made from pork or beef.
What sets the Completo apart is the abundance of toppings. Classic versions feature a layer of creamy mayonnaise, diced tomatoes, and mashed avocado, but variations abound, each with its own twist. Some add sauerkraut, others a tangy drizzle of mustard, and some even include a spicy salsa for a kick of heat.
This dish is an everyday indulgence for many Chileans, found everywhere from bustling street food stands to casual family meals. It’s satisfying, affordable, and endlessly customizable, making it a favourite across all ages and walks of life.
Ingredients and Taste
The Completo combines simple, accessible ingredients to create something truly special. The soft, pillowy bun contrasts beautifully with the snap of the sausage, while the toppings add a medley of textures and flavours.
Freshly diced tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and acidity, while mashed avocado adds a creamy richness that balances the dish. Mayonnaise, generously spread, ties everything together with its smooth, tangy profile.
The result is a perfect harmony of flavours: savoury, tangy, and slightly sweet, with a fresh and creamy finish.
Variations like the Completo Italiano (named for its resemblance to the Italian flag) layer avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise, while the Completo Dinámico lives up to its name with a mix of additional toppings, such as pickles, hot sauce, or cheese.
A Taste of History
The origins of the Completo date back to the early 20th century, when hot dogs began making their way into Chilean cuisine, brought by immigrants and inspired by American fast food culture.
However, the Chilean palate demanded more than just mustard and ketchup. Locals began layering fresh, local ingredients onto their hot dogs, creating a version that reflected Chile’s vibrant culinary traditions and love for bold flavours.
Over the decades, the Completo evolved into a cultural phenomenon. It became a symbol of casual dining, enjoyed by families, friends, and street food enthusiasts alike.
Its affordability and versatility ensured its enduring popularity, and today, it remains a part of Chilean life.
Chilean Completo Recipe
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 4 soft hot dog buns
- 4 beef hot dogs
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup sauerkraut (optional, as per regional preference)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hot dog buns on a baking tray and cover them lightly with foil to maintain softness. Warm them in the oven for 5–7 minutes while you prepare the other components.
Bring a medium sized pot of water to a gentle boil. Add the hot dogs and cook for 5 minutes or until heated through. Avoid overcooking to retain their juicy texture. Remove the hot dogs from the water and set aside on a plate.
In a bowl, mash the avocados until smooth but slightly chunky. Add lime juice, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix well to enhance the creamy flavour while keeping the authentic texture of the topping.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion (if using) until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. This step adds depth of flavour but is optional based on personal preference.
Combine the chopped tomato with a small pinch of salt in a separate bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes to release some of the natural juices, enhancing its freshness when layered onto the completo.
Assemble the base by spreading mayonnaise generously inside each warm bun. Layer in the sauerkraut (if using) for added tanginess and texture.
Place one hot dog in each bun. Top with mashed avocado, chopped tomato, and sautéed onions (if used). Drizzle ketchup and mustard over the toppings in a zigzag pattern for a visually appealing presentation.
Serve the completos immediately while warm. Pair them with a side of crispy fries or a light salad for a complete meal. To elevate the experience, offer additional condiments like chili sauce or more lime wedges for customization. Encourage diners to enjoy the dish with a napkin ready, it’s meant to be a deliciously messy affair!
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