National Dish Chile: Completo (Recipe)
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Meet the Completo, Chile’s exuberant answer to the humble hot dog! Far more than a sausage in a bun, this beloved street food piles a soft roll high with creamy avocado, chopped tomato, tangy sauerkraut and lashings of mayonnaise. It is generous, messy and utterly moreish — a true icon of Chilean snacking. Bring a taste of Santiago’s bustling street corners straight to your own kitchen with this easy recipe.
About Completo
The Completo is a much-loved Chilean street food that is often celebrated as a national favourite. This lavishly dressed hot dog has become a culinary icon across Chile, adored by locals and visitors alike. At its heart lies a savoury sausage nestled in a soft bun, but it is the creative toppings that make it truly special and open the door to countless combinations. Piled high and eaten with both hands, it captures the fun, informal spirit of Chilean Chilean cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 hot dog buns
- 2 sausages (such as beef or pork)
- 1 avocado
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 100 g sauerkraut
- Optional: chilli or jalapeños for extra heat
Shopping for the ingredients
To put together an authentic completo, it is worth choosing the right ingredients. Many food shops stock special hot dog buns and fresh sausages straight from the meat counter. Avocados should be ripe but not overripe, so they deliver a smooth, creamy texture. The choice of mayonnaise matters too, as it has a strong influence on the overall flavour of the completo.
Preparing the dish
Before you start assembling the completo, it helps to prepare all the toppings in advance. The avocado can be mashed or sliced, depending on the texture you prefer. Finely chop the onion so it spreads evenly through the hot dog. The sauerkraut can either be gently warmed or served fresh, whichever you like best.
Step-by-step instructions
- Prepare all the ingredients as described in the previous section.
- Cook the sausages according to the packet instructions, either in water or on the grill, until piping hot throughout.
- Lightly toast the hot dog buns to give them a crisp texture.
- Slot the cooked sausages into the buns.
- Add the avocado, mayonnaise, onion, tomato and sauerkraut.
- Optionally, add chilli or jalapeños to taste.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For anyone with a gluten or lactose intolerance, there are simple ways to enjoy the completo. Instead of classic hot dog buns, use widely available gluten-free rolls or even lettuce leaves to wrap the filling. Mayonnaise is also sold in lactose-free versions. Take care to choose your ingredients carefully to avoid any cross-contamination.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
There are plenty of tasty alternatives for vegans and vegetarians too. Swap in a plant-based sausage made from pea protein or soya, and reach for one of the many vegan mayonnaise options, which are every bit as creamy and delicious. For extra flavour, try roasted peppers or pan-fried courgette as toppings in place of the meat.
More tips and tricks
To refine the flavour of your completo even further, add a range of well-chosen herbs and spices. A squeeze of lime juice brings fresh, bright notes to the dish, while a scattering of fresh coriander lends an unmistakably Chilean touch. If you fancy a little more crunch, fold in caramelised onions or toasted peanuts for an interesting texture. Experiment with different combinations to create your own favourite version.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The completo is wonderfully adaptable and lets you tailor it to your own preferences. Try different kinds of sausage, such as chicken or turkey, for a leaner option. The toppings can be varied just as freely — swap avocado for guacamole, for instance, or use feta cheese in place of mayonnaise for a Mediterranean twist. Let your creativity run wild!
Ingredient substitutions
If certain ingredients are not to your liking, or you have allergies, there are easy swaps to be made. In place of the traditional sausage, use quinoa or bulgur patties for a healthy, meat-free option. Instead of mayonnaise, a vegan yoghurt gives a similarly creamy consistency. Many new products on the market also offer exciting choices for gluten-free bread or alternative spreads.
Drink pairing ideas
The completo pairs beautifully with a wide range of drinks. A refreshing glass of Chilean wine — a good Carmenère in particular — is an ideal match. For an alcohol-free choice, homemade lemonade or a fruity iced tea works a treat. Beer, especially a crisp lager, also complements the dish perfectly and harmonises wonderfully with the savoury flavours of the completo. Round things off with a classic Pisco Sour for a truly Chilean spread.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays an important part in serving a completo. Lay it out on a colourful plate and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. Add small bowls of extra toppings so every guest can customise their completo just the way they like. An attractive arrangement makes the whole meal more inviting and the eating all the more enjoyable — much like sharing a platter of Empanadas with friends.
A bit of history
The completo has its roots in Chilean food culture and draws on influences from other countries. This hot dog made its way to Chile through immigrants who brought their own recipes with them. Over the years it has evolved into a much-loved snack found at street stalls, family gatherings and public festivals. It is more than just a dish; it is often seen as an expression of Chilean life and culture, sitting proudly alongside classics such as Chorrillana.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Completo
The Completo is more than just a snack; it is a piece of Chilean identity that celebrates the art of combining flavours and textures in every single bite. With its versatile toppings and many ways to prepare it, the completo is easy to adapt to your own preferences. Whether you enjoy it traditional, vegan or gluten-free, there is a completo for everyone. Let this tasty dish tempt you and bring a slice of Chilean culture to your table!
