Completo Italiano
Hot dog with avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise, named for its resemblance to the Italian flag colors; a variant of the Chilean Completo.
The Completo Italiano is one of Chileâs most iconic hot dog variations, named for the colors of the Italian flagâgreen (avocado), white (mayonnaise), and red (tomato). It features a soft bun with a boiled or grilled sausage, generously topped with these three ingredients in equal, layered proportions. Originating in the mid-20th century, it became a staple at Chilean street carts and quick-service eateries, prized for its fresh toppings and eye-catching presentation. Unlike its messy cousin, the Completo DinĂĄmico, the Italiano is slightly more restrainedâbut still loaded by most international standards. The creamy avocado and mayo balance the acidity of the tomato, creating a surprisingly harmonious flavor. In Chile, itâs not just foodâitâs cultural shorthand for comfort.
Authentic Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Hot dogs (Chilean vienesas or regular hot dogs)
- 4 Hot dog buns (Soft white buns, sliced lengthwise)
- 2 large Ripe avocados (For the green (Italian flag))
- 3 large Roma tomatoes (For the red (Italian flag))
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (For the white (Italian flag))
- to taste Salt (For seasoning tomatoes)
- to taste Black pepper (Optional)
Instructions
- Boil hot dogs in salted water for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Prepare avocado: Cut avocados in half, remove pits, and mash to smooth consistency. Season lightly with salt.
- Prepare tomatoes: Dice tomatoes finely and season with salt and pepper. Let sit 5 minutes.
- Warm buns by steaming or toasting lightly.
- Place hot dog in bun.
- Spread mayonnaise generously along one side of the bun (white stripe).
- Add mashed avocado along the middle (green stripe).
- Top with diced tomatoes along the other side (red stripe).
- Serve immediately. The colors should resemble the Italian flag!
Related Styles (kinda)
4 similar styles
Umbrella name for a large hot dog topped with chopped tomatoes, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, and sometimes sauerkraut or salsa; a national style in Chile.
Hot dog with tomato, sauerkraut (chucrut), and mayonnaise (sometimes green sauce), a variant of the Chilean Completo.
Hot dog with vinagrete, corn/peas (milho/ervilha), and crispy potato sticks (batata palha); typically offered with a broad sauce bar in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Hot dog in a soft bun topped with salsa criolla (onion, ajĂ, lime), ketchup, mustard, mayo, and often crushed potato chips/papitas al hilo. Ubiquitous Peruvian street dog; locals recognize the build.