ucalorie Carrot dogs are a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional hot dogs, offering a smoky, savory flavor with fewer calories. This recipe is perfect for barbecues, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners. Packed with nutrients, these carrot dogs are sure to be a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best carrot dogs while also providing detailed calorie information for each ingredient.
Ingredients for carrot dogs
For the Carrots:
- 4 large carrots (300 g) – 123 calories
- 4 hot dog buns (240 g) – 600 calories
And For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (60 ml) – 40 calories
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (60 ml) – 5 calories
- 1/4 cup water (60 ml) – 0 calories
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (15 ml) – 52 calories
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (5 ml) – 0 calories
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2 g) – 6 calories
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g) – 9 calories
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (3 g) – 8 calories
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (1 g) – 2 calories
Optional Toppings:
- 1/4 cup ketchup (60 g) – 60 calories
- 2 tablespoons mustard (30 g) – 18 calories
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut (75 g) – 15 calories
- 1/4 cup diced onions (40 g) – 16 calories
Total Calories
- Carrots and buns: 723 calories
- Marinade: 120 calories
- Optional toppings: 109 calories
- Grand Total: Approximately 952 calories (238 calories per carrot dog with toppings).
Why This Carrot Dog Works
Carrot dogs work because the carrots absorb the marinade’s smoky, savory flavors, mimicking the essence of a traditional hot dog. The slightly firm texture of cooked carrots replicates the bite of meat-based hot dogs, making this a satisfying vegan alternative.
Instructions
1: Prepare the Carrots
- Peel the carrots: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the carrots. Trim both ends to ensure they fit snugly into your hot dog buns.
- Boil the carrots: Fill a medium-sized pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the peeled carrots and boil for 10-15 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the carrots too soft for grilling.
- Cool the carrots: Drain the carrots and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.
2: Make the Marinade
- Combine the ingredients: In a shallow dish or a resealable bag, mix soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, water, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the carrots: Place the cooked carrots into the marinade. Ensure they are fully submerged. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
3: Grill the Carrots
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high.
- Cook the carrots: Remove the carrots from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop grill marks and are heated through.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill for added texture and flavor.
4: Assemble the Carrot Dogs
- Place the carrots in buns: Position each grilled carrot in a hot dog bun.
- Add toppings: Top with your favorite condiments and garnishes, such as ketchup, mustard, sauerkraut, and diced onions.
Tips for Perfect Carrot Dogs
- Choose the right carrots: Opt for thick, straight carrots to mimic the shape of traditional hot dogs.
- Marinate for longer: For a more robust flavor, marinate the carrots overnight.
- Experiment with spices: Add chili powder or cumin to the marinade for a spicier twist.
- Serve immediately: Carrot dogs taste best when served fresh off the grill.
Nutritional Benefits of Carrot Dogs
- Low in calories: At just 238 calories per serving, carrot dogs are a guilt-free indulgence.
- Rich in vitamins: Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, promoting good vision and immune health.
- High in fiber: The fiber in carrots aids digestion and keeps you full longer.
- Heart-healthy: This recipe is cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat, making it great for heart health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the carrots instead of grilling them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the marinated carrots on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through.
Can I use gluten-free buns?
Absolutely. Substitute regular hot dog buns with gluten-free options to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
How long can I store marinated carrots?
You can store the marinated carrots in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Grill them fresh before serving.
Are carrot dogs suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can boil and marinate the carrots in advance. Grill them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Carrot dogs are a fun, nutritious, and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food in a healthier form. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption, this recipe offers all the smoky, savory flavors of a traditional hot dog with none of the guilt. With detailed calorie information and step-by-step instructions, you can confidently make carrot dogs recipe that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and take your plant-based cooking to the next level!
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