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Carrot Hot Dogs Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

This Carrot Hot Dogs recipe offers a delicious and healthy plant-based alternative to traditional hot dogs. Marinated in a smoky, tangy broth and grilled to perfection, these carrots have a satisfying texture and flavor that makes them a perfect vegan or vegetarian main dish for your next barbecue or casual meal.

Ingredients

Carrot Dogs

  • 6 large carrots
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (try making your own)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari if gluten-free)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • Cooking oil of choice for brushing (olive oil or vegetable oil recommended)
  • Hot dog buns

Instructions

  1. Trim the carrots: Using a sharp knife, cut the ends of the carrots so they match the length of your hot dog buns. Focus on using the thickest parts and discard the thin ends or save for another use.
  2. Peel until uniform: Peel the outer skin of the carrots with a vegetable peeler, and continue peeling down to make the thickness uniform. Round the ends carefully to resemble the shape of hot dogs.
  3. Make the marinade: In a medium sauté pan, combine the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic, black pepper, and optional vegan Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to create the marinade.
  4. Boil the carrots: Add the prepared carrots to the pan with the marinade and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook until the carrots are fork-tender, about 10 to 12 minutes depending on thickness.
  5. Marinate off heat: Remove the pan from heat and let the carrots sit in the marinade for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  6. Grill the carrots: Take the carrots out of the marinade and place them on a clean plate. Brush them with your chosen cooking oil to prevent drying. Grill the carrots over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and they are nicely caramelized.
  7. Grill the buns: When the carrots have about 1 minute left on the grill, place the hot dog buns cut side down on the grill. Grill each side for about 1 minute until toasted and warm.
  8. Serve: Remove the carrots and buns from the grill. Assemble your carrot hot dogs with your favorite toppings and enjoy your flavorful vegan hot dog alternative.

Notes

  • Choose thick carrots for best results to maintain a meaty texture.
  • Adjust marinating time if you prefer a stronger smoky flavor.
  • Use gluten-free tamari if you need a gluten-free version.
  • The smoking liquid and vegan Worcestershire sauce add depth, but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Serve with traditional hot dog toppings like mustard, ketchup, relish, or vegan mayonnaise.
  • This recipe yields 6 servings, perfect for a small gathering.