Homemade Vegan Hot Dog Recipe

Step 1

Remove tofu from its package and pat dry.  If using a tofu other than super firm, I would recommend pressing as much liquid out of it as you can.  Cut your tofu into 6 equal sized rectangles.  I place my block of tofu on its side and cut in half vertically once.  Then, cut each half into three slices.  This step is totally optional, but if you like, you can then trim off some of the square edges so that the tofu is more rounded and resembles an actual hot dog shape.

Step 2

Make your marinade in either a ziplock bag or small container.  Add the soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, toasted sesame oil, garlic, ginger and a few drops of liquid smoke and then mix together well.

Step 3

Place the tofu into the marinade and make sure you cover as much of it as you can.  Ideally, you want to let the tofu sit in the marinade (in the refrigerator) overnight, but at least two hours should flavor it well.  Make sure to swish the marinade around every so often, or flip your tofu to make sure the entire piece gets submerged.

Step 4

Prepare the spring roll wrappers once the tofu has been fully marinated.  Add about a cup of water to a wide, shallow bowl.  I like to then add a few drops of the liquid smoke and mix it around.  Place the spring roll wrapper into the water, one at a time, and use your hands to move it around until it becomes soft and flexible.

Step 5

Lay the wrapper onto a flat surface and place one piece of tofu in the middle.  Wrap the edges up and then roll the wrapper around the tofu.  It will be a little slippery, so just do the best you can!

Step 6

Heat a large pan over medium heat and spray with cooking spray.  Add in your wrapped vegan hot dogs and let each side cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned and slightly crispy.  Some parts of the spring roll wrapper will get crispy, while others may not, but that is ok.  At the very end, I like to spoon a few spoonfuls of the leftover marinade on top of the hot dogs and let them cook for another 30 seconds or so.  This just creates a nice charred flavor and blackens them a little bit, which is how I used to prefer to eat my regular hot dogs.

Step 7

These hot dogs have the best texture when served immediately.  Enjoy in a bun with your favorite hot dog toppings.