Minute Meal: Fully-Loaded Vegan Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are a true Minute Meal. They're quick, they're easy, but can they possibly be a decent meal for both kids AND grown adults? Absolutely! With a couple of fresh toppings and fun condiments, vegan hot dogs can be a quick and balanced meal that feels gourmet!

Step One: Find a vegan hot dog brand you like.

This may take some trial and error. I, personally, think most vegan hot dogs are delicious, but a lot of people don’t feel the same way. Sometimes vegan hot dogs are an acquired taste, since they most likely won’t taste exactly like a non-vegan hot dog. But don't let that scare you! There are many delicious brands out there. The good news is that, if you buy a brand and end up hating it, you most likely will be able to mask the flavor under all the toppings! Haha.

I really like Field Roast brand's mock meats. However, some people prefer Tofurky hot dogs. I believe Trader Joes has their own line of vegan sausages, so it doesn't necessarily need to be a hot dog. Beyond Meat brand has sausages as well that taste very close to the real deal. As with any mock meat or dairy product, it takes some experimenting to find what suits your tastes.

Step Two: Toppings

In the photo, I have a chili-cheese hot dog and another one which I went crazy with! Below is a list of many topping options that you can set out on the table for everyone to mix-and-match their favorites!

• Vegan canned chili (It will say "vegetarian" on the label)

• Vegan cheddar cheese shreds

• Onion (White/Red/Green)

• Pickles/Relish

• Jalapenos

• Avocado

• Tomatoes

• Soy chorizo

• Vegan mac n' cheese

• Potato Chips

• Coleslaw

• Sauerkraut or Kimchi (Many fermented food brands have a variety of kraut flavors. So, even if you don't typically like sauerkraut, maybe give a different flavor a try. I like Saverne brand Sriracha flavor and Cleveland Kraut's Gnar Gnar flavor)

Don't forget the condiments! You can stick with the usual ketchup and mustard, or you can branch out with a spicy mayo (vegan mayo mixed with a few shakes of hot sauce), BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, pesto, chimichurri, or even a vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing!

Step Three: Build Your Own!

Set out the cooked hot dogs, buns (toasted or untoasted), toppings, and condiments on the table and let everyone have fun building their own customized, completely vegan hot dogs! You can even serve them alongside some quick and easy sides like frozen sweet potato fries, vegetarian-label baked beans or vegan mac n' cheese.

This meal works great for a quick weeknight meal or even to serve up at a party. It's also excellent at turning a weeknight meal into a party!