Vegan Carrot “Hot Dogs”

It sounds crazy, but with the right spices and seasonings, you can make a carrot taste a lot like a hot dog!  Since heavy consumption of meat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and cancer, you may be looking for ways to cut back on meat. Consider giving this a try when you have a craving for the much less nutritious typical hot dog. I'm serving this for my Labor Day barbecue! I adapted this recipe from delish.com

What You Need:

8 medium carrots, peeled and thin ends removed (choose carrots that are as close to hot dog size and shape as possible)

2 T grapeseed or extra virgin olive oil

1/4 c apple cider vinegar

1/4 c vegetable broth

2 T Bragg's Liquid Aminos (or substitute low sodium soy sauce)

1 tsp Grade A or B maple syrup

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp Liquid Smoke

1/2 tsp garlic or onion powder

How to:

1. Place carrots in a baking dish and brush with olive oil.

2. Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl, add to the baking dish and pour over the carrots.  Marinate 1 hour.

3. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cover the baking dish with foil and place in oven for 30 minutes. Then remove foil and roast 20-30 minutes more until you can easily pierce the largest carrot with a fork

4. Serve on hot dog buns with mustard, sauerkraut, relish and the usual hot dog toppings