completos

Completos are a Chilean variation of the hot dog consisting of a frankfurter served in a split bun and loaded with multiple toppings. The name is derived from the Spanish adjective completo, meaning complete, reflecting its lavish toppings and generous portion size.

Typical preparations feature a mayonnaise-based sauce as a base, then a layer of mashed avocado (palta) and chopped ripe tomato. The combination of palta and tomato with mayo is widely associated with the dish, though regional and vendor variations exist. Some versions also include mustard, sauerkraut (chucrut), or other relishes, and may increase portions of sausage or add onions.

Among the variants, the completo italiano is one of the best-known, characterized by a topping mix of tomato, palta and mayonnaise. Other regional adaptations may substitute or omit ingredients such as sauerkraut or rely more on mustard or a relish, depending on local taste preferences and vendor style.

Origins are in Chilean street food, with stands and kiosks popular in major cities such as Santiago and Valparaíso. Completos are commonly eaten as a snack or casual meal, sold in diners, markets, and street stalls, and they have a long-standing place in Chile’s urban food culture with numerous local variations.