These carrot dogs are the easiest you can possibly make and will wow and amaze you and your guests with their beautiful sweet and smoky bite.
These Vegan Carrot Dogs are the ultimate proof that plant-based eating doesn't mean giving up on your favourite comfort foods. They’re easy, nutritious, and crowd-pleasing – perfect for vegan BBQs, picnics, or casual dinners.
Give them a go and surprise your friends and family – even the meat-lovers might ask for seconds!
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What are Carrot Dogs?
Plant based cookery requires some rather creative and outside the box thinking with regards to how you use ingredients to create food like what you used to love and what better ingredient to turn into the humble hot dog than the even more humble carrot?
Yes, I said it. Carrot.
I didn't want to believe it myself when I first bumped into this trend, but I was also curious to try it, so I did and, I have to tell you, I was literally surprised!
It was, however, missing something. So I tweaked a few ingredients, added some, and this is my ultimate version: dead easy to make and super healthy (really, really low in cals and fats!) that I am really proud to present to you!
Now stick with me here because it isn't as mad as you think.
Why You'll Love These Vegan Carrot Dogs
Vegan carrot dogs may sound unusual, but once you've tried them, you’ll be hooked. The secret lies in the marinade – a bold blend of smoky, tangy, and umami-rich ingredients that transform ordinary carrots into a flavour-packed hot dog alternative.
Carrots offer both a wonderful sweetness when cooked and also when cooked for the right length of time a gentle bite that gives just the same resistance as biting into a hot dog.
The spicing and flavouring from our marinade will aid in turning this humble cheap vegetable into the star of the dish and in a few not to difficult quick steps you can have a totally plant based summer snack or an evening treat.
Perfect to be served in a bread roll with ketchup and mustard.
The liquid smoke will give a light smokiness, the Dijon mustard and garlic a light heat, the soy will lightly salt and there will be even more sweetness from the ketchup and onion powder. The stock will act as our main body for the first phase of cooking, much better than using just water because that would dilute all our wonderful flavours so you can either make your own or just use your favourite vegetable stock brand.
5 Reasons why this Recipe is a Winner:
- Healthy & Plant-Based
- Budget-Friendly
- Customisable with Your Favourite Toppings
- BBQ and Grill Friendly
- Ideal for Kids and Adults Alike
How to Make Vegan Carrot Dogs (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
Select carrots that are as similar in thickness as possible to aid in the cooking time being equal and as well as carrots as straight as possible, wash (peal if you like) them and trim off the ends the same length as the buns you're using.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a bowl mix together water, liquid smoke, maple syrup, soy sauce and liquid seasoning, garlic and onion powder, Dijon mustard, vegetable stock powder, ketchup, white pepper and dulse (if using).
Step 3: Simmer the Carrots
Place the carrots in a pan or pot forming only one layer, pour over the marinade, cover with a lid and cook on medium/low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size/thickness, until fork tender but not mushy. It's important to keep a bit of the bite to them, so make sure not to over cook the carrots at this stage.
Step 4: Cook the Carrot Dogs
Grill, bake, or pan-fry the marinated carrots for 5-10 minutes until nicely browned and heated through.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Place each carrot into a toasted hot dog bun. Add your favourite toppings – mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, vegan mayo, crispy onions – and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add chilli flakes or Sriracha to the marinade for heat.
- Sweet & smoky: Use a bit more maple syrup for a sweeter taste.
- Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free buns and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- No Grill? Roast them in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan) for 15 minutes.
What to Serve with Vegan Carrot Dogs
Complete your meal with these tasty sides:
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