You're a real "wiener", just relish in the moment.
America isn't really recognized for having an exuberant cuisine. We are known for our hot dogs, hamburgers, and overly fried food with a side of ranch. As of late, I have had some odd cravings for everything American. So strange, I would have thought I was pregnant. (Before anyone asks, no - I'm not.) I believe these cravings all started when we hosted the "Man's Potluck" a few weeks ago. The menu for said potluck suggested that the men in my life share the same taste buds as the children. Our spread included “hot dogs”, mac and cheese, and pizza. What are “hot dogs”, you ask, and why are they in quotations?
Since Trey’s diagnosis and Tiny's allergies we try to limit anything processed. From cutting out cereals, to making our own bread (still figuring this one out), we've made a lifestyle change. Our family enjoys the challenge of putting a twist on some old favorites, while trying to incorporate more vegetables in meals that had little to none. Our carrot dogs do just that. They have been such a hit that we have had multiple people ask for it, so we have decided to put it up on the blog. I will give a forewarning, once you make these you may never go back to an actual hot dog. This recipe is up just in time for the long weekend ahead.
** Food was inspired by a lovely friend of mine, Alicia. Back when we were young and reckless "adults", she would make these dogs after a long night of partying. Thanks Alicia for the endless fun nights, full bellies, and never ending laughter in my late teens/early twenties.
Ingredients:
8 Large Carrots
8 Hot Dog buns
1 cup of Soy Sauce or Tamari (soy sauce substitute)
1.5 tablespoons of Maple Syrup
2 tablespoons of Liquid Smoke
2.5 tablespoons of Steak Sauce or Worcestershire
2 tablespoons of organic Tomato paste, if substituting with ketchup use 3 tablespoons
1.5 cups of organic vegetable broth or water
Garlic (optional)
Steps:
Wash and peel carrots
Cut carrots to size desired
In a medium/large sauce pan mix together all ingredients, but the broth or water. Pan size will depend on your carrot size.
Bring your sauce to a boil.
Once boiling add your carrots, cooking for 6 minutes
Add vegetable broth or water and let cook for an additional 5 minutes
Turn off the burner; allowing your carrots sit in the sauce for another 5 minutes to soak up the sauce.
The last step is the best step, TOP YOUR DOG! Dress it up or dress it down. Now enjoy!