Day 1: Sun, Sept. 17 ~ Carrot Dogs ~

~ Carrot Dogs ~

First of all - good, and good substitute for whatever is in hot dogs normally. That said, this was definitely one of the more interesting WFPB (Whole Food Plant Based)/vegan/vegetarian attempts. 

We were both very grossed out by something that smelled SO much like hot dogs, but wasn't. I guess that's the whole point. I've learned that through this journey - it really is the spice and method of cooking that makes the meal - but this was just a little disconcerting. 

We will definitely be doing this again, because Jesse is addicted to hot dogs but trying to stay away from meat. I'm going to just put it out there that we also hope to one day expand our family, and processed meats are on the 'no' list....so this meal will be resurfacing. 

It looks like a hot dog when all the stuff is on it (and its in a bun - like I said we haven't tended our kitchen lately, and found out ours were moldy!). It smells like a hot dog, and tastes like a hot dog. It just isn't a hot dog, and therefore a little strange. But so doable, and yummy!

Alrighty, here's the recipe. **Needs marinating - so allow that time!

Peel carrots. Boil till fork tender (very important to get right texture here!). Marinate overnight , or at least 4 hours for best result. 

Carrot marinade:
1cup veggie broth
Seasoned rice vinegar I used less than a fourth cup
A hit of reduced sodium soy sauce 
1tbs mustard of choice
1tsp garlic powder 
A few shakes of smoked paprika to taste
1/8 tsp liquid smoke  (optional - we used it, but some people say really just the paprika gives it enough 'smokiness'. You can find liquid smoke with the ketchup/vinegar/sauces at the grocery store.)

I cooked them on my fancy Martha Stewart panini pan so it has little 'grill marks'. :) It is recommended to cook them on the stove so the marinade caramelizes. I'm thinking in the future I may do it like this, then do a reheat on the grill just for fun? :)