Name: Vegan Carrot Lox (Smoked Salmon Alternative) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: PT-491551H57M15S
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 pound carrots, thinly sliced; ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari; 1 tablespoon liquid smoke; ¼ cup maple syrup; 2 tablespoons fresh or dried dill; 2 tablespoons nori flakes; ¼ cup lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon

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Introduction

Carrot Lox is a creative vegan alternative to smoked salmon, using thinly sliced carrots marinated and roasted to achieve a smoky, savory flavor. This simple recipe is perfect for a plant-based brunch or appetizer that impresses without fuss.

A white plate holds a single sliced bagel as the base layer with a light, soft texture. The second layer is a spread of creamy white cheese, evenly covering the bagel. On top, several thin, curled ribbons of bright orange carrot create a textured, slightly shiny layer. Scattered over the carrots are several thin, circular slices of pale purple red onion adding a smooth, translucent contrast. Small green sprigs of dill are placed on top for a fresh accent. The setting is on a white marbled surface with soft natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound carrots (thinly sliced)
¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon liquid smoke
¼ cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons dill (fresh or dried)
2 tablespoons nori flakes
¼ cup lemon juice and zest of lemon

Instructions

Step 1: In a shallow pan or ziplock bag, combine the soy sauce or tamari, liquid smoke, maple syrup, dill, nori flakes, lemon juice, and lemon zest to create the marinade. Add the thinly sliced carrots and marinate for 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Step 3: Transfer the marinated carrots and their liquid into a roasting pan with at least 2-inch sides. Roast for 90 minutes, until the carrots are tender and have a smooth texture.
Step 4: Remove the carrots from the liquid and serve as desired. Save the marinade for future use—it works wonderfully as a flavor enhancer for tofu or tempeh.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger smoky flavor, adjust the amount of liquid smoke to taste but be careful not to overpower the carrots.
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra layer of flavor and mild heat.
Use fresh dill if possible for a brighter herbal note; dried dill also works well if fresh is unavailable.
Experiment with different nori types or crushed seaweed snacks to vary the oceanic taste.

Storage

Store carrot lox in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it submerged in some of the marinade to maintain moisture and flavor. Reheat gently if desired, although it is often served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

The image shows a toasted bagel cut in half, each half topped with three layers: the first layer is a smooth white cream cheese spread, the second layer is bright orange carrot ribbons rolled and curled across the surface, and the third layer has thin purple rings of red onion and small green dill sprigs sprinkled on top, adding texture and color contrast. The bagel halves rest on a wooden board with a second toasted bagel half displayed on a white plate in the blurred background, all set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of carrots?

While carrots provide a firm texture and natural sweetness ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with thinly sliced beets or zucchini, though texture and flavor will vary significantly.

How long can I marinate the carrots?

The carrots should be marinated between 1 to 3 days to absorb maximum flavor. Marinating longer than 3 days can lead to overly soft texture and may affect taste negatively.