<P> Pork or beef, or a blend of both, is typically used as the primary meat ingredient . The hot link can be spiced using red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper . Additional spices may be used, such as thyme, paprika, crushed bay leaves and onion flakes . Hot link sausages are sometimes smoked . </P> <P> In Southern Louisiana, where Cajun cuisine is abundant, a hot link sausage on a bun is consumed more frequently than hot dogs . </P> <P> In Texas, the hot link is typically prepared with beef, and is usually cooked over indirect heat . Common sides to accompany the Texas hot link includes sliced white bread, crackers, orange cheese, onion slices and pickles . In Pittsburg, Texas, the hot link is a popular food and has been produced there since 1897 . In Pittsburg, hot links are typically broiled or baked to the point of having a "half - burned look". In 1983, Pittsburg Hot Link Packers, Inc. in Pittsburg, Texas was producing 12,000 pounds of hot links per week . Almost all of the hot links produced by Pittsburg Hot Link Packers were consumed within 100 miles of Pittsburg during this time . </P> <P> In Chicago, Illinois, hot links are typically prepared using pork, may be spiced with pepper, fennel and sage, and are typically covered with a barbecue sauce . They are commonly available at soul food barbecue restaurants in the city's south side, often served with french fries and white bread . They may be slow cooked in a barbecue pit . </P>

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