Smoky Carrot Dogs
I’ll never forget the first time I made Smoky Carrot Dogs. It was a warm summer evening, perfect for a BBQ, but I wanted something different from the usual hot dogs. Smoky Carrot Dogs sounded intriguing, and I was eager to see how they’d turn out. As I prepped the ingredients, the savory aroma of the marinade started filling my kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come.
Prepping the Carrots
The secret to Smoky Carrot Dogs lies in the marinade. I whisked together vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, tamari, maple syrup, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of liquid smoke. The combination created a rich, savory, and slightly sweet mixture that would transform the carrots. I poured it over the peeled and trimmed carrots in the roasting pan, ensuring they were well-coated. Covering the pan with foil, I let the carrots soak in the flavors for 30 minutes.
Roasting to Perfection
With the oven preheated to 425°F, I placed the marinated carrots inside, still covered with foil. The anticipation grew as the kitchen filled with an inviting smoky scent. After 30 minutes, I removed the foil and let the carrots continue roasting. They became tender and caramelized, with a beautiful smoky glaze. I knew these Smoky Carrot Dogs were going to be a hit.
Assembling and Serving
Finally, it was time to assemble the Smoky Carrot Dogs. I nestled the roasted carrots into whole wheat hot dog buns, adding a generous drizzle of ketchup and mustard on top. The first bite was a revelation—smoky, slightly sweet, and perfectly tender. These Smoky Carrot Dogs were a delightful surprise, a new favorite for summer BBQs. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for a healthier option, they’re a delicious alternative that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Smoky Carrot Dogs
- Marinating Time: To enhance the flavor, marinate the carrots for a longer period, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.
- Uniform Slicing: Ensure the carrots are of similar thickness to cook evenly. If some carrots are thicker, you can slice them in half lengthwise.
- Grilling Option: For a more authentic smoky flavor, grill the marinated carrots on medium-high heat instead of roasting. Turn them occasionally to get even grill marks.
- Topping Ideas: Experiment with various toppings like avocado slices, grilled onions, or vegan cheese to add more flavor and texture.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the carrot dogs immediately after roasting or grilling for the best texture and flavor. If serving later, reheat them in the oven or on the grill.
- Hot Dog Buns: Toast the buns lightly on the grill or in the oven for added crunch and flavor.
- Health Tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce the sodium content of the dish.
- Storage: Leftover carrot dogs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill before serving.
Smoky Carrot Dogs
When it comes to hosting a veggie BBQ, these Smoky Carrot Dogs are a game-changer! Marinated in a savory, slightly sweet mixture, these carrots transform into the perfect hot dog alternative. Roasted to tender perfection, they’re ready to be topped with your favorite condiments. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a healthier option, these carrot dogs will be the star of your cookout!
4
servings30
minutes50
minutes192
kcal30
minutes1
hour50
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
4 large Carrots peeled and ends trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
1 teaspoon agave syrup or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
4 whole wheat hot dog buns
Ketchup and mustard for serving
- Alternative Ingredients:
Tamari replaces soy sauce for gluten-free
Agave syrup replaces maple syrup
Whole wheat buns replaces regular hot dog buns
Directions
- Marinate Carrots – Place the peeled and trimmed carrots in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil. In a mixing bowl, combine vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, tamari, agave syrup, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and liquid smoke. Pour this mixture over the carrots and cover the pan with foil. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
- Roast Carrots – Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the foil-covered roasting pan in the oven and roast for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 20 minutes until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Assemble and Serve – Place the roasted carrots in whole wheat hot dog buns. Serve immediately with ketchup and mustard on top.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- roasting pan
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 192kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 12000IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ- Smoky Carrot Dogs
Can I use baby carrots instead of large carrots?
While baby carrots can be used, they may not hold up as well during roasting or grilling. Large carrots are preferred for better texture and presentation.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the carrots ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Roast or grill them just before serving for the best results.
What can I use as a gluten-free bun alternative?
You can use gluten-free hot dog buns, lettuce wraps, or even portobello mushroom caps as a bun alternative.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Can I add other vegetables to the marinade?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the marinade for a variety of flavors. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetable’s density and size.
