These vegan hot dogs are a game-changer, offering a smoky, savory flavor that rivals the classic. With just 10 minutes of prep and a quick 20-minute cook, they’re perfect for busy days. The secret lies in the 8-hour marinade, infusing each bite with rich, umami depth and a satisfyingly firm texture. Topped with your favorite fixings, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Bite into a juicy, perfectly seasoned hot dog with a crispy exterior and tender center. The blend of spices and marinade creates a bold, smoky flavor that’s irresistible. Whether grilled or pan-seared, these vegan delights are a healthier, plant-based twist on a summer staple. Ready in just 8 hours and 30 minutes, they’re worth every moment of anticipation. Serve them up at your next gathering and watch them disappear!
What You’ll Need for Vegan Hot Dogs?
- 8 medium carrots (hot dog-sized, peeled and trimmed to fit your buns)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or substitute with white vinegar)
- ¼ cup tamari (or use soy sauce as an alternative)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Water (as needed, for steaming and marinating)
- Avocado oil (for drizzling, or use another high-heat oil)
- Hot dog buns (for serving, choose your favorite type)
- Homemade relish (or store-bought, for topping)
- Desired fixings (e.g., mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, or onions)
How to Make Vegan Hot Dogs
- Prepare the carrots: Peel and trim the carrots to fit the size of your hot dog buns.
- Steam the carrots: Place the carrots in a steamer basket over a pot filled with 1 inch of water. Bring to a simmer, cover, and steam for 10 to 12 minutes, or until fork-tender but still slightly firm in the middle.
- Make the marinade: In a shallow container or baking dish, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, tamari, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add the steamed carrots and enough water to fully submerge them. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate to marinate overnight (or at least 8 hours).
- Grill the carrots: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the carrots from the marinade and pat dry. Drizzle with avocado oil and grill for 5 to 7 minutes, turning until well-charred and grill marks form on all sides.
- Assemble and serve: Place the grilled carrots in buns and top with homemade relish and your desired fixings. Enjoy!
Creative Toppings and Sauces to Elevate Your Vegan Hot Dogs
Take your vegan hot dogs to the next level with these flavorful toppings and sauces. Try a tangy homemade relish with diced pickles, onions, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. For a creamy twist, drizzle with vegan cashew cheese sauce or spicy sriracha mayo. Add crunch with shredded cabbage, pickled jalapeños, or crispy fried onions. Don’t forget classic options like mustard, ketchup, and sauerkraut for a nostalgic touch!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Vegan Hot Dogs
Complete your meal with delicious sides that complement your vegan hot dogs. Serve with oven-baked sweet potato fries or a refreshing corn and black bean salad. For a lighter option, pair with a simple green salad or grilled veggies. If you’re hosting a cookout, add a bowl of vegan coleslaw or chips and guacamole for a crowd-pleasing spread.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Skip the overnight marinating by letting the carrots soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes—they’ll still absorb plenty of flavor. Use pre-peeled carrots to cut down on prep time, or steam them in the microwave for 5-7 minutes instead of on the stovetop. If grilling isn’t an option, simply pan-fry the carrots in a bit of oil for a quick and tasty alternative.
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
Store leftover marinated carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. If you’ve already grilled the carrots, they’ll keep well in the fridge for 2 days—just reheat on the grill or stovetop for best results.
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to customize your vegan hot dogs. Swap carrots for zucchini or eggplant slices for a unique twist. Add a pinch of cumin or liquid smoke to the marinade for extra depth. For a gluten-free option, serve your hot dogs in lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns. The possibilities are endless!
Vegan Hot Dogs
Ingredients
- 8 medium hot dog-sized carrots 1½ pounds
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup tamari
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Water as needed
- Avocado oil for drizzling
- Hot dog buns for serving
- Homemade relish for serving
- Desired fixings
Instructions
- Peel the carrots and trim them to the size of your hot dog buns.
- Place the carrots in a steamer basket and set over a pot filled with 1 inch of water. Bring the water to a simmer, cover, and steam for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the carrots are fork-tender but still a little firm in the middle.
- Meanwhile, make the marinade. In a shallow container or baking dish, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, tamari, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add the steamed carrots and enough water to fully submerge the carrots in the marinade. Let cool to room temperature, then transfer to the fridge to marinate overnight.
- Grill the carrot hot dogs. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the carrots from the marinade and pat dry. Drizzle with avocado oil and grill for 5 to 7 minutes, or until well-charred, turning as grill marks form on each side.
- Remove from the grill and serve in buns with homemade relish and your desired fixings.