Carrot Hot Dogs are a creative, plant-based alternative to traditional hot dogs, offering all the satisfying flavors and textures without any meat. Made with hearty, seasoned carrots, these “hot dogs” are perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, cruelty-free version of a classic American favorite. The carrots are marinated in a savory blend of spices, then grilled or roasted to achieve a smoky, tender texture that mimics the satisfying bite of a traditional hot dog. Topped with your favorite condiments and served in a bun, carrot hot dogs are sure to become a fun and flavorful addition to your next cookout or casual meal.
The process of making carrot hot dogs begins with selecting firm, medium-sized carrots. After peeling and trimming them to fit in a hot dog bun, the carrots are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, liquid smoke, garlic, onion powder, and other spices. The marinating process helps infuse the carrots with rich, savory flavors that give them a meaty taste and a deeper color. After marinating for a few hours, the carrots are either grilled or roasted, which softens them while also caramelizing the marinade, enhancing the flavors and adding a bit of char for that “grilled hot dog” taste.
What makes carrot hot dogs so appealing is their versatility. Once grilled or roasted, they can be topped with anything you’d put on a regular hot dog—ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, or sauerkraut. You can also get creative with your toppings by adding avocado, pickled vegetables, or a drizzle of vegan mayo or spicy mustard for extra flavor. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a bit of hot sauce for an added kick.
Carrot hot dogs are perfect for a summer BBQ, a fun dinner idea, or even as a healthier alternative for kids. They’re easy to prepare and serve, making them a great option for meal prep or a quick weeknight meal. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, offering a healthy, satisfying alternative to traditional hot dogs without sacrificing taste or texture.
Whether you’re looking to reduce your meat consumption or just trying something new, carrot hot dogs are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish in a fresh, plant-based way.

Ingredients
- 4 carrots peeled and trimmed, large
- 1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp liquid smoke
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 4 hot dog buns to serve
- additional toppings such as mustard, ketchup, relish, etc.
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the carrots for about 6-8 minutes until they are fork-tender but not too soft.
- While carrots are cooking, mix soy sauce, vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish.
- After draining the carrots, add them to the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated carrots, turning occasionally, until they are slightly charred and heated through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve each carrot in a hot dog bun with your choice of toppings.
These carrot hot dogs are surprisingly delish! I was really skeptical at first, but boy, they turned out great with some mustard. 5 stars!
I’m not sure if carrots can taste like hot dogs. Sounds weird to me, but glad it worked for you! Maybe I’ll try it if I find some good toppings.
Y’all, this recipe is a game changer! Perfect for my vegetarian friends, and I feel less guilty after eating them. 🥕🌭
Wow, this is a game changer! I never knew carrots could taste like hot dogs! Five stars!
I can’t believe carrots can mimic hot dogs! This sounds too good to be true. Gonna try this soon!
Umm, carrots tasting like hot dogs? Really? Sounds kinda weird, but I’m willing to give it a shot. Maybe?
Just tried this recipe, and it was a total flop for me. The carrots were too soft and didn’t taste right. 2/5
I’m sorry to hear that! Maybe they were overcooked? I like mine a bit crunchy. Give it another try! 😊
So yummy!! I added some jalapeños for a kick, and it was fire! Definitely making it again!
Carrots can’t be hot dogs! That’s just wrong.
Hahaha, I can’t believe it, but I liked it! Who knew? I’ll make these again for sure!
I’m so glad you liked it! It’s amazing how simple veggies can surprise us. What toppings did you use?
I don’t know, carrots as hot dogs? Sounds kinda weird. Wouldn’t regular hot dogs be better?
Tried making these for a veggie cookout and everyone went crazy over them! I didn’t tell them they were carrots at first. Ha! 5 stars!
That sounds delicious! I can’t believe they’re made from carrots. I’m definitely trying this at my next barbecue! 😋
My nephew said they tasted like cardboard… kids can be brutal! Maybe more seasoning next time?
Carrot hot dogs? Sounds weird but I gave it a shot. They’re actually pretty good! Didn’t expect to like them that much. 4 stars!
Great recipe! Simple and healthy! I think I’ll use zucchini next time instead of carrots to mix it up.
More like carrot not-dogs. My kids won’t eat this stuff, so I’m out. 😒
I dunno, this seems kinda weird. Carrots instead of hot dogs? Not sure I can wrap my head around it.
So easy to make! I used the leftovers in a salad. Will definitely make again!
Sounds great! I love using leftovers creatively, I might try that too!
I messed up and boiled them too long 😩 but still edible.
meh. They’re okay. not as good as real hot dogs tho.
Nah, not feeling it. Carrots just ain’t hot dogs, you know?
I think they’re really good! Give them a try with some mustard, they might surprise you! 🥕
Yum! I added some spicy mustard and it was delish. Perfect for my summer BBQ.
Ugh, I thought these would taste like real hot dogs. They didn’t. Wasn’t a fan.
I’ve been looking for a good veggie hot dog recipe, and this one did not disappoint! Tasted fantastic!
1/2 a tsp of liquid smoke? That’s too much for carrots! Next time I’ll stick to real hot dogs.
I get your point, but you might be surprised how good they turn out! Liquid smoke can add a nice flavor if used right.
Nah, man! Just stick to the real deal, hot dogs for life! Carrots can’t replace that taste.
Uh what’s liquid smoke? Can I use actual smoke? LOL 😂 Just kidding!
This is just plain weird. Carrots in a hot dog bun? Not for me. 1 star.
I didn’t have broth so I used water, and it came out kinda bland… might try again and do different seasonings.
Is it really a hot dog if it’s just a carrot? I still don’t know about this one.
These carrot dogs are a game changer! So good!
These carrot hot dogs are surprisingly good! Didn’t think I’d like it but wow, my kids loved them too!
I can’t believe you liked it! I’ve tried vegan hot dogs before, but they were just gross. Maybe I should give this a try with my kids too.
Y’all are playing! Carrots as hot dogs? Who thought of this?! Not gonna lie, I’m not into it. Just stick with the real thing. 1 star.
Hmm, my kids didn’t like this. Said it tasted weird. Maybe good for adults? idk
Carrot + bun = not a hot dog. But surprisingly tastes okay.
These were a big hit at my BBQ last weekend! Everyone was shocked when I said they were carrots!
Wow, I never thought of using carrots like that! Sounds interesting, will give it a try!
Carrots as hot dogs? That sounds kinda weird. Are you sure they actually taste good?
These carrot hot dogs are surprisingly good! I was skeptical at first but I’m glad I tried them. Will make again!
Tasty! Next time I’ll add more spices for kick! 🌶️
So simple but soooo good. I added some jalapeños for a kick. 🔥🔥
I don’t even like carrots, but these were nice! Who knew you could do this???
Carrot hot dogs? Really? Who came up with this? 😂 I would rather have a real hot dog any day.
I know it sounds weird, but these are really good! You should try them! 🤤
Nah, I’ll stick to meat. This is just not right! Who would want a carrot as a hot dog? 😅
Tried making this but the carrots were too crunchy. Can you make em softer??
Turned out great! The marinade gave it so much flavor. Will make again!
I dunno, man. Carrots on a bun? Sounds kinda weird to me.
I tried making this, but the carrots took forever to cook. No offense, but it is too much work for a veggie!
Honestly, I was skeptical at first. Carrots as hot dogs? But after trying it, I was pleasantly surprised. Still prefer beef though.
What a healthy alternative! Made them for a BBQ and everyone loved em!