Can I make carrot lox ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, I think it tastes even better after sitting overnight. Just roast and slice your carrots, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors really meld together beautifully. When you're ready to serve, just let them come to room temperature while you toast your bagels - easy peasy!

What's a good liquid smoke substitute?

No liquid smoke? No problem! My favorite swap is smoked paprika (use about 2 teaspoons). It gives that same smoky depth without being overpowering. If you're really in a pinch, a tiny dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire (vegan if needed) adds umami, though it won't be quite as smoky. Just avoid liquid smoke imitations - they often taste artificial and weird.

Do I have to use vegan cream cheese?

Not at all! While I developed this as a vegan recipe, regular cream cheese works perfectly if you're not plant-based. The important thing is using a thick, spreadable variety - nobody wants runny cream cheese sliding off their bagel! My dairy-loving friends swear by whipped cream cheese for extra fluffiness.

Why do my carrot slices keep breaking?

Ah, the heartbreak of carrot lox casualties! Two tips: 1) Make sure your carrots are completely cool before slicing (warm ones fall apart), and 2) Use a super sharp knife. A dull blade mashes rather than slices. If all else fails, slightly thicker slices still taste amazing - perfection is overrated anyway!

Can I freeze carrot lox?

Technically yes, but I don't love the texture after thawing. The carrots get a bit mushy and lose that perfect lox-like bite. If you must freeze, do it before slicing and plan to use within a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then slice and bring to room temperature before serving. Better yet, just make a fresh batch - it's so quick!

Smoky Carrot Lox Bagels That Fool Everyone in 45 Minutes

Name: Smoky Carrot Lox Bagels That Fool Everyone in 45 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large carrots, peeled; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp liquid smoke; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 4 bagels, sliced; 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp capers; Fresh dill for garnish

Description

A vegan twist on classic lox bagels using carrots for a smoky, savory flavor.

Ingredients

4 large carrots, peeled
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp liquid smoke
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
4 bagels, sliced
1/2 cup vegan cream cheese
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp capers
Fresh dill for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss peeled carrots with olive oil, liquid smoke, salt, and pepper.
Roast carrots for 30 minutes until tender.
Let carrots cool, then slice thinly.
Toast bagels lightly.
Spread vegan cream cheese on each bagel half.
Top with carrot slices, red onion, and capers.
Garnish with fresh dill.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate carrots overnight.
Use gluten-free bagels if needed.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American