Carrot Dogs

Ingredients

• 4 large carrots
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari sauce
• 1 teaspoon molasses
• ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 whole-grain hot dog buns, toasted if desired

     Topping ideas:

• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Diced onions
• Coleslaw
• Relish
• Sauerkraut
• Chili

‍ Directions

1. Peel the carrots, trim the ends, and cut them to the length of your hot dog buns.
2. Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the carrots and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Drain the carrots in a colander and put them under cold running water. This shocks them and prevents them from getting any softer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, tamari, molasses, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Transfer the marinade to the large zip-top bag and add the cooked carrots. Toss gently to coat. Refrigerate overnight.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Remove the carrots from the marinade and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 14 to 20 minutes, until heated through and slightly browned.
6. Serve the carrots in the hot dog buns with your choice of toppings.