Reindeer Dog
Caribou-reindeer and pork sausage on a bun, topped with Coca-Cola-glazed onions, ketchup, and mustard. 'Tundra Dog' is a vendor variant, not a distinct style.
The Reindeer Dog is a regional specialty of Alaska, particularly popular in Anchorage where food carts famously serve them downtown. Despite the name, it’s typically made with a blend of reindeer (caribou) and pork or beef, resulting in a rich, slightly gamey sausage. It gained popularity in the 1990s as a quick, hearty snack for locals and tourists alike. Vendors often grill the sausage and serve it in a bun with onions that are caramelized in Coca-Cola—a distinctive local twist. The sweet-salty combo reflects Alaska’s love of bold, comforting flavors. Reindeer Dogs are a staple at festivals and outdoor events, and some locals even argue it’s the true state food of Alaska.
Authentic Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Reindeer sausages (Caribou/reindeer blend with pork and beef)
- 4 Hot dog buns (Steamed)
- 2 large Yellow onions (Sliced for Coca-Cola glaze)
- 1 cup Coca-Cola (Classic Coke for glazing onions)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (For caramelizing onions)
- 4 oz Cream cheese (Softened, authentic Alaska topping)
- as needed Yellow mustard (For serving)
- as needed Ketchup (Optional)
- as needed Sweet pickle relish (Optional)
- as needed Jalapeño slices (Optional)
Instructions
- Make Coca-Cola glazed onions: Heat butter in large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Coca-Cola and continue cooking until onions are caramelized and glazed, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally until liquid reduces and onions are golden brown and sticky.
- Grill or pan-fry reindeer sausages until heated through and lightly charred, about 8-10 minutes.
- Steam buns until warm and soft.
- Spread cream cheese inside each bun (authentic Alaska style).
- Place grilled reindeer sausage in bun.
- Top generously with Coca-Cola glazed onions.
- Add yellow mustard and optional toppings like ketchup, relish, or jalapeños.
- Serve immediately. This is authentic Alaska street vendor style!
Related Styles (kinda)
4 similar styles
Cheese-stuffed, bacon-wrapped hot dog, often deep-fried or grilled, served with mustard, a style from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Grilled Polish sausage topped with grilled onions, yellow mustard, and sport peppers, originating from Chicago's Maxwell Street market.
The Jackson Coney Dog features a beef and pork hot dog in a steamed bun topped with a thick, beanless meat chili, yellow mustard, and onions. It's a heartier, mildly spiced take on the Michigan Coney legacy.
Hot dog topped with chopped red onions and a green chile sauce, often with jalapeños and sour cream, a signature style from Denver, Colorado.