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Best Vegan Gluten-Free Hot Dogs (No Carrots!)


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  • Author: Evelyn Marcella Rivera
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 Hot dogs 1x

Description

These plant-based “hot dogs” use crumbled Pumfu (or extra-firm tofu) seasoned with smoky spices, bound with tomato paste and agar, then wrapped in rice paper and lightly pan-seared for a chewy, juicy bite. Serve in your favorite gluten-free bun with classic toppings for a fun, allergy-friendly BBQ feast.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the “Hot Dog” Filling:

  • 1 package Pumfu Original, crumbled (Or 1/2 (15 oz) package extra-firm tofu)
  • 1 Tbsp Avocado oil
  • 2 Tbsp Coconut aminos
  • 2 tsp Paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Mustard powder
  • 2 tsp Smoked paprika (For depth)
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin or coriander
  • 1/8 tsp Nutmeg (Just a pinch)
  • 1 tsp Sea salt (Adjust to taste)
  • 2 tsp Coconut sugar (Or sub maple syrup)
  • 2 Tbsp Tomato paste
  • 2 tsp Agar-agar powder (Dissolved in 1/4 cup water below)
  • 1/4 cup Water (For soaking agar—discard solids)
  • 6 pieces Rice paper (6″-diameter rounds)

For the Rice Paper Marinade:

  • 1/2 cup Warm water (Room-temp or lukewarm)
  • 1 Tbsp Coconut aminos
  • 2 tsp Maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Sea salt
  • Smoked paprika (For sprinkling)

Optional Add-In:

  • 1 tsp Fennel seeds (Toasted for extra “sausage” note)
  • Topping Options
  • Yellow mustard
  • Ketchup homemade or store-bought
  • Pickle relish
  • Sauerkraut

Instructions

Prepare the Agar Mixture:

  1. In a small saucepan, whisk 2 tsp agar-agar into ¼ cup water.
  2. Bring to a simmer, cook 1–2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.

Season & Cook the Filling:

  1. In a large bowl, combine crumbled Pumfu (or tofu), 1 Tbsp oil, coconut aminos, tomato paste, spices (paprika, smoked paprika, garlic & mustard powders, cumin, nutmeg, salt), coconut sugar, and the cooled agar mixture. If using, stir in fennel seeds.
  2. Heat the skillet over medium. Add the filling and sauté 5–7 minutes, stirring, until excess moisture evaporates and mixture is cohesive. Remove from heat.

Form Dogs in Rice Paper:

  1. Lay one rice paper round flat. Place ≈⅙ of the filling in a ¼-inch thick log in center.
  2. Roll tightly: fold sides in, then seam-side down. Repeat for all 6.

Marinate the Rice-Paper Wraps:

  1. Whisk together marinade ingredients in a shallow dish: warm water, coconut aminos, maple syrup, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
  2. Using a pastry brush, coat each rice-paper dog lightly with marinade. Let rest 3 minutes to soften.

Pan-Sear the Dogs:

  1. Warm 1 Tbsp oil in the skillet over medium-high.
  2. Add dogs seam-side down. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until crisp, golden, and heated through.

Serve:

  1. Nestle in gluten-free buns. Top with mustard, ketchup, relish, sauerkraut, or your favorites.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare filling 1 day ahead; store in fridge. Assemble and sear just before serving.

  • Gluten-Free Buns: Ensure buns are certified gluten-free if needed.

  • Spice Level: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling for heat.

  • Storage: Store cooked dogs in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in a skillet to restore crispness.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Snack
  • Cuisine: American, Gluten-Free, Vegan

Nutrition

  • Calories: 150