When it comes toeating vegetarian, I'm not a big fan of meat replacements. I like tofu andtempeh, but I prefer makingveggie-packed burgersinstead of opening a pack of alternative meat patties. But making meat-free hot dogs, on the other hand, is not as easy as shredding some vegetables and tossing them in a bun. You need the right texture—and that's where carrots come in.
I was at a backyard barbecue a few weekends ago to which my good friends, both adventurous vegetarian eaters, brought carrot hot dogs. I hadseen the recipe before—it's basically a marinated carrot that's grilled and stuffed in a hot dog bun—but hadn't ever tried it. Their version was good: the marinade included liquid smoke, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce, which gave the carrots an umami flavor that satisfied my craving for a "dog." But the overnight marinade (and the liquid smoke, for that matter) seemed fussy. Which made me wonder, could I make carrot dogs in a weeknight-friendly way?Sure could. Here's how to do it.
1. Infuse Flavor
In order to turn carrots from everyday vegetable into savory bun filling—without the need of an overnight soak—boil them briefly in an umami-packed marinade. Soy sauce adds earthy saltiness, chipotle in adobe adds smoky spice, and maple syrup adds that bacon-like sweetness. In just 10 minutes the carrots cook to soft and the liquid turns into a glaze around the carrots.
2. Grill 'Em
The carrots are great with just the glaze, but for even more backyard barbecue flavor, heat up the grill while the glaze is reducing and then finish the carrots off with a final dose of charred flavor. You can also glaze the carrots ahead of time and bring them along to a cookout to finish off on the grill.
3. Add Crunch and Toppings
For even more flavor, whisk a little lime juice into mayonnaise (use avegan versionif you prefer) for a tangy topping that will complement the spice of the carrot hot dogs. Add some cilantro, chopped red onions, and crunchy corn nuts for brightness and bite, and your dogs are done! A simple coleslaw of mayonnaise, lime, cilantro, and cabbage is the perfect bright side to finish the dish for an easy weeknight dinner that—promise!—even die-hard carnivores will love.
