Pigs in Blankets

Delicious Pigs in Blankets Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Pigs in Blankets are a beloved appetizer, perfect for parties, festive meals, or simply to add a touch of fun to a family dinner. This simple and quick recipe combines the simplicity of dough with the flavor of sausages, creating a delicacy that will delight any palate. The origins of this recipe are steeped in culinary traditions, and today it is popular worldwide, with a versatility that allows it to be adapted to individual preferences.

Ingredients needed:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons grated cheddar cheese or red Leicester cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 50 pork sausages (or your preferred sausages)

Making the dough:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 220°C (425°F). A high temperature is essential to achieve that golden, fluffy crust.
2. In a large bowl, measure the 2 cups of self-rising flour. Add the salt and grated cheese, gently mixing with a fork to combine the ingredients.
3. In another container, pour the milk until you reach the 1 cup mark. Crack the egg into the milk, add the oil, and whisk everything together until smooth.
4. Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and gently mix with a fork, being careful not to overdo it. In the end, you should have a soft dough that doesn’t stick too much to your hands. If it’s too wet, add a little flour; if it’s too dry, add a little milk.

Shaping and filling:
5. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one piece of dough into a thin rectangle (about 5 mm thick). Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; scone dough is forgiving!
6. Cut the rectangle into strips about 4 cm wide, followed by cuts at intervals of 6 cm, so you get small, irregular shapes. Repeat the process with the other piece of dough.
7. Take a sausage and place it in one corner of an oblong piece of dough at a slight angle. Start rolling, gently pressing to seal the dough around the sausage. Continue this process with all the strips of dough and remaining sausages, arranging them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Baking:
8. Beat an egg in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to glaze each piece with the egg mixture. This will give a golden, shiny glaze.
9. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is fluffy and golden. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the aroma that will fill your kitchen!

Serving:
10. After taking them out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. Pigs in Blankets are delicious both warm and at room temperature and can be accompanied by various dips, such as ketchup or sweet mustard.

Helpful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of sausages, including chicken or turkey sausages, if you prefer a lighter option.
- If you want to add extra flavor, consider incorporating dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the dough.
- This appetizer is perfect for parties, alongside a cold beer or a fruity cocktail that will complement the savory taste of the sausages.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour? Yes, but you will need to add baking powder (about 2 tablespoons) to ensure good rising of the dough.
- Can I prepare the dough in advance? Absolutely! You can make the dough a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap.
- How can I store Pigs in Blankets? They can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to bring them back to freshness.

In conclusion, Pigs in Blankets represent a perfect combination of textures and flavors, making them an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party or just enjoy them with family, these snacks are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Try this simple and quick recipe and enjoy the delicious results!