If you’ve never tried a carrot hot dog, get ready for a game-changer! These smoky, slightly sweet, and perfectly tender carrots take on all the delicious flavors of a classic hot dog—without the meat. They’re marinated, grilled to perfection, and tucked into a warm bun with all your favorite toppings. Perfect for Bonfire Night or any cozy evening by the fire, these plant-based dogs will surprise even the biggest skeptics.
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Why You’ll Love Bonfire Night Carrot Hot Dogs
- Smoky & Flavorful: Marinated to perfection, these carrots pack in that rich, grilled taste.
- Fun & Unique: A conversation-starter that’s perfect for gatherings and cookouts.
- Healthy & Plant-Based: A lighter, veggie-packed alternative to traditional hot dogs.
- Customizable: Load them up with your favorite toppings for a personalized bite.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have.
Ingredients in Bonfire Night Carrot Hot Dogs
This recipe proves that simple ingredients can create amazing flavors!
- Carrots: The star of the show! Choose medium-sized, evenly shaped carrots for the best results.
- Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor to mimic that hot dog taste.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A little tang for balance and a slight fermented kick.
- Liquid Smoke: The secret to that classic smoky flavor (or use smoked paprika for an alternative).
- Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness to enhance the natural flavors.
- Garlic & Onion Powder: Essential seasonings to round out the flavor.
- Mustard & Worcestershire Sauce: Classic condiments that bring bold, savory notes.
- Hot Dog Buns: Soft and fluffy, ready to hold all the goodness.
- Toppings of Choice: Ketchup, mustard, relish, sauerkraut, caramelized onions—you name it!
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s turn these humble carrots into something spectacular!
- Prep the Carrots: Peel and trim the carrots to match the length of your buns. Simmer them in a pot of boiling water until just fork-tender but not mushy.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, maple syrup, and seasonings.
- Marinate the Carrots: Place the cooked carrots in a shallow dish or a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over them and let them soak for at least 2 hours (or overnight for extra flavor).
- Grill or Pan-Sear: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated carrots, turning occasionally, until they develop a nice char and caramelization.
- Assemble the Hot Dogs: Place the carrots in buns and load them up with your favorite toppings.
- Serve & Enjoy: Grab a napkin, because these are juicy, messy, and absolutely delicious!
How to Serve Bonfire Night Carrot Hot Dogs
These hot dogs are all about the toppings! Here are some tasty ideas:
- Classic Style: Ketchup, mustard, and relish for a familiar favorite.
- Smoky BBQ: Drizzle with BBQ sauce and top with crispy fried onions.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, sriracha mayo, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Loaded Street Style: Pile on avocado, pickled onions, and crumbled feta.
- Crunchy Slaw: Top with coleslaw for a fresh, zesty contrast.
Additional Tips
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Overnight marination makes them even better.
- Don’t Overcook the Carrots: They should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for the Best Sear: It helps create that grilled effect.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Batch Cook & Store: These carrots store well, making them great for meal prep.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can marinate the carrots up to 24 hours in advance and cook them when ready to serve.
Q2: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A2: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or pop them on the grill for a few minutes.
Q3: Can I use baby carrots instead?
A3: Not recommended—they won’t have the right texture or shape. Stick with full-sized carrots for the best results.
Q4: What if I don’t have liquid smoke?
A4: Smoked paprika or a bit of chipotle powder works as a great substitute.
Q5: Can I bake the carrots instead of boiling?
A5: Yes! Roast them at 375°F (190°C) until just tender before marinating.
Q6: Are these good for kids?
A6: Absolutely! They’re fun, tasty, and a great way to get kids to eat more veggies.
Q7: Can I grill these directly from raw?
A7: It’s best to parboil them first to ensure they cook through evenly.
Q8: What’s the best bun to use?
A8: Brioche buns add a slightly sweet touch, but any soft hot dog bun works great.
Q9: Can I make these oil-free?
A9: Yes! Just skip any oil-based toppings and cook in a non-stick pan or grill.
Q10: How long do leftovers last?
A10: Store marinated carrots in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cooked carrots can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Final Thoughts
Bonfire Night Carrot Hot Dogs are a fun, smoky, and totally unexpected way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re enjoying them by the fire or serving them up at a summer cookout, these plant-based dogs prove that carrots can do way more than just sit on the side of the plate. So grab your buns, pick your toppings, and dig into this delicious twist on a classic favorite!
Print
Bonfire Night Carrot Hot Dogs
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These vegan carrot hot dogs are a simple and delicious twist on a classic! Poached in stock and baked with a smoky glaze, they have the perfect crunch and deep flavor. A fun plant-based recipe for Bonfire Night or any casual meal.
Ingredients
- 3–4 carrots (medium-sized, peeled & trimmed)
- 3–4 hot dog buns
- 1 stock cube (vegetable or mushroom)
For the glaze:
- 3 tbsp vegan butter, melted
- 1 tsp tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
For toppings:
- 2 tbsp vegan mayo (optional, for a creamy touch)
- 3 gherkins, finely chopped
- Holy Moly Smoky Red Pepper & Tomato Salsa (or Tomato & Mango Salsa)
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 200°C (fan).
-
Poach the carrots:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and dissolve the stock cube.
- Add the carrots and poach for 3-4 minutes to soften slightly. Drain.
-
Coat & bake the carrots:
- Mix the melted vegan butter, tamari, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
- Coat the carrots with the glaze, wrap them in baking parchment, and create a small sealed basket for each.
- Bake for 25 minutes, turning once for even caramelization.
-
Prepare toppings:
- Mix vegan mayo with the chopped gherkins.
- Slice open the hot dog buns and spread the mayo mix inside.
-
Assemble the hot dogs:
- Place each baked carrot into a bun.
- Top with Holy Moly Salsa or your favorite toppings.
-
Serve & enjoy!
Notes
- Carrot Texture: If you like a firmer texture, reduce poaching time to 2 minutes.
- Extra Smoky Flavor: Add 1/2 tsp liquid smoke to the glaze.
- Storage: Store leftover baked carrots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hot dog
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg