Gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs are becoming increasingly popular among people with dietary restrictions or preferences. For those avoiding gluten, vegetarianism provides an extra challenge when looking for tasty meat-free foods. Luckily, there are some great options for gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs on the market today.
What is gluten and why do some people need to avoid it?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, fatigue and more. The only treatment for celiac disease is following a strict lifelong gluten-free diet.
An estimated 1 in 100 people worldwide have celiac disease. Many more are estimated to have non-celiac gluten sensitivity and see improvement in symptoms when removing gluten from their diets. With rising diagnoses in recent decades, the demand for tasty gluten-free products has boomed.
What makes a hot dog vegetarian and vegan?
Traditional hot dogs contain animal products like pork, beef or chicken. Vegetarian hot dogs get their protein from plant-based sources instead. Common bases include:
– Soy protein
– Wheat gluten
– Beans, lentils and other legumes
– Nuts and seeds
– Vegetables like mushrooms or jackfruit
Vegans also avoid animal byproducts like eggs or dairy. Some vegetarian hot dogs are “accidentally” vegan, but you’ll want to read labels carefully if veganism is important to you. Watch out for eggs or milk-based ingredients.
Popular brands of gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs
Several national brands now offer gluten-free vegetarian hot dog options:
Tofurky
Tofurky offers multiple types of gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs, sausages and deli slices. Their hot dogs are made from a blend of tofu and vital wheat gluten. They come in flavors like regular, frankfurters and kielbasa style.
Field Roast
Field Roast makes grain-based gluten-free vegan frankfurters and sausages, including traditional stadium dogs and franks in blankets. They contain no soy or wheat.
Upton’s Naturals
Upton’s Naturals offers gluten-free and vegan hot dog options like chili cheese dogs, kielbasa and breakfast links made with seitan. Seitan is made from wheat gluten that has had the carbohydrates washed away, so it’s safe for gluten-free diets.
Yves Veggie Cuisine
The Yves brand has gluten-free veggie dogs made from soy protein and potato starch. There are several flavor options like Argentine and Mexican style.
Lightlife
Lightlife makes Smart Dogs now certified gluten-free and vegan. They’re made with a blend of pea, potato and rice proteins. Several flavors are available.
Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat recently released their new Beyond Meatballs, which can easily be put on a bun to create a gluten-free vegan hot dog. They’re made with pea protein.
Alpha Foods
Alpha Foods has gluten-free and vegetarian hot dogs made from a blend of corn, peas and rice. There are a few flavor choices, including an organic uncured vegan option.
Are store brand gluten-free veggie dogs safe?
Several major supermarket chains now carry their own store brand of gluten-free and vegetarian hot dogs:
Simple Truth (Kroger)
Simple Truth organic uncured vegan hot dogs contain potato starch instead of wheat for the vegetarian gluten-free protein source.
Good & Gather (Target)
Target’s Good & Gather line includes gluten-free uncured beef and vegetarian hot dogs made with potato starch and other veggie proteins.
365 Everyday Value (Whole Foods)
Whole Foods 365 brand has organic uncured gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs made with potatoes and lentils.
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s gluten-free rice corn and chickpea veggie dogs are specifically labeled “processed in a facility free of gluten.”
Always double check ingredients and labeling just in case, but these store brands are generally safe gluten-free picks if you need a quick option.
Are hot dog buns gluten-free?
Hot dog buns often contain wheat flour, so you’ll need to use a gluten-free replacement bun to keep your meal gluten-free. There are several brands of prepackaged buns, or you can easily make some at home with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
Here are some gluten-free bun options:
– Udi’s – Several varieties like white, whole grain and hot dog specific
– Schar – Gluten-free classic burger buns
– Canyon Bakehouse – Gluten-free doggie buns
– Franz – Gluten-free hot dog buns
– Aldi – LiveGfree gluten-free buns
– Walmart – Great Value gluten-free buns
– Homemade – Bobs Red Mill and other brands have gluten-free flour blends
What to avoid in gluten-free veggie dogs
When shopping for gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs, there are a few things to watch out for:
– Wheat – Contains gluten
– Barley – Contains gluten
– Rye – Contains gluten
– Malt or malt extract – Usually contains gluten
– Natural flavors – Can sometimes contain gluten
– Dextrin – May be derived from wheat
– Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) – Can contain gluten
– Modified food starch – May be from wheat
– Blue or green food coloring – Can be derived from gluten
Stick to brands that are certified gluten-free to be safe. Call the manufacturer if you’re unsure about any ingredients.
Other tips for gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs
Here are some other suggestions for enjoying gluten-free veggie dogs:
– Grill them for 4-5 minutes to give them that hotdog flavor
– Top with ketchup, mustard, relish or sauerkraut
– Bake in a dish topped with veggies and cheese
– Add to macaroni and cheese instead of hot dogs
– Slice and add to salads, nachos or baked potatoes
– Make puppy chow by coating in gluten-free cereal and melted chocolate
– Use in breakfast tacos, omelets or breakfast casserole
Having go-to brands of gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs makes life a little easier. Just add your favorite toppings and sides for an easy plant-based meal. With all the options now available, going gluten-free and meatless is tastier than ever.
Gluten-Free Vegetarian Hot Dog Recipe Ideas
If you want to get creative and make your own gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs at home, there are endless possibilities. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
1. Lentil hot dogs
Combine cooked green or brown lentils with gluten-free breadcrumbs, garlic, onions, and spices. Shape into hot dog shapes, coat in cornstarch, and pan fry. Serve on gluten-free buns with all the fixings.
2. Quinoa hot dogs
Mix cooked quinoa with walnuts, flax seeds, tamari, liquid smoke, and spices like paprika and mustard. Shape into dogs, coat in gluten-free flour, and bake.
3. Pumpkin hot dogs
Blend pumpkin puree with chickpeas, nuts, gluten-free oats, sage, fennel and smoked paprika. Shape mixture into hot dogs and bake until firm.
4. Root veggie dogs
Grate sweet potatoes, beets, parsnips and celery root. Combine with gluten-free breadcrumbs, chickpea flour, garlic and oregano. Shape into hot dogs and bake.
5. Eggplant hot dogs
Slice eggplant into long strips and marinate in tamari, liquid smoke, garlic and olive oil. Grill until slightly charred and serve in a bun.
6. Carrot hot dogs
Shred carrots and combine with cashews, chickpeas, gluten-free flour, onion, garlic and cumin. Shape into hot dogs and pan fry.
Get creative with your own recipes. Beans, vegetables, nuts and gluten-free grains make tasty vegetarian hot dog combinations!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs:
Are gluten-free hot dogs healthy?
Like all highly processed foods, gluten-free hot dogs aren’t typically considered health foods. However, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet. Choosing options with fewer artificial ingredients is best.
Do vegetarian hot dogs taste like real hot dogs?
The flavor, texture and appearance of vegetarian hot dogs varies widely by brand. Some mimic meat very closely, while others have a more distinctive flavored profile. The cooking method also impacts flavor. Grilling, frying or baking can make them taste more “dog-like.”
Why do hot dogs need to be gluten-free?
For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, eating gluten triggers negative immune responses in the body. Removing gluten from the diet allows intestinal healing and resolution of symptoms. Buying specialty products ensures gluten exposure is avoided.
Are gluten-free hot dogs more expensive?
Unfortunately, specialty gluten-free and vegetarian products almost always come with a higher price tag. This is due to the use of special ingredients, facilities and manufacturing processes. The good news is costs have decreased a bit as these specialty diets have become more mainstream.
Are all veggie hot dogs vegan?
While you might assume vegetarian equals vegan, it’s important to check labels. Some vegetarian hot dogs contain eggs or milk-based ingredients. Vegan hot dogs avoid all animal products and are made with only plant-based ingredients.
Can you make your own gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs?
Absolutely! Combining beans, lentils, veggies and gluten-free grains makes it easy to create homemade veggie dogs. Explore fun flavor options by using spices, sauces and cooking methods like grilling, baking or pan frying.
Conclusion
Gluten-free vegetarian hot dogs provide a convenient meat-free option for those avoiding gluten. Many national brands now offer tasty options, in addition to specialty store brands. Reading labels carefully and calling manufacturers helps ensure products are safely gluten-free. With the rise in plant-based eating, the choices keep improving. Grill up a gluten-free veggie dog and enjoy your favorite classic toppings for a cookout, game day or anytime meal.
