Homemade Rippers

[theevilmonkee]

I have a question about homemade rippers (the deep fried hot dogs popular in New Jersey).
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/7257...

Is it necessary to use the Thumanns or Schickhaus franks to make these, or can I use regular ones from the supermarket? Because in my area neither of these "special ones" are available. What regular brand (available everywhere) would you recommend for these if I'm gonna make them homemade, or will they simply not work without the ones made specially for frying?

Thanks!

[ESNY]

I think as long as you use a natural casing dog you should be fine. In my supermarket generally that means boars head as all the other brands are skinless.

[mamachef]

Miller beef dogs work very well.....

[theevilmonkee]

Unfortunately these aren't available in my area either. Do you know of any mainstream brands that would be good?

[fourunder]

While they may not be exactly the same, as the Thumann dog (beef & pork) has an ingredient to help it burst....You need to use a natural casing hot dog......

[theevilmonkee]

What exactly is a "natural casing" hot dog?

*edit* Nevermind, I thought this meant something special, but I know what you mean now. Thanks