Smoked pigs in a blanket are a delicious appetizer that combines the smoky flavor of sausages with the buttery goodness of pastry. This dish is a popular choice for parties and gatherings, and it's easy to see why. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. In this article, we'll explore the origins of pigs in a blanket, discuss different variations of the dish, and provide some tips for making the perfect smoked pigs in a blanket at home.
Why are they called pigs in a blanket?
The name pigs in a blanket is believed to have originated in the United States, where it refers to small hot dogs or sausages wrapped in pastry. The dish is similar to the British version, which consists of a sausage wrapped in bacon. The similarity in name often causes confusion, but both versions are equally delicious in their own right.
Ingredients and Preparation
Smoked pigs in a blanket typically consist of hot dogs or sausages wrapped in croissant dough. However, you can also use Vienna sausages, cocktail sausages, or breakfast/link sausages wrapped in biscuit dough or croissant dough. The dough can be homemade, but most commonly, canned dough is used. Some variations even use pancake dough, which is served like a corn dog on a stick.
In Texas, a similar dish called kolaches or klobasneks is popular. This dish originated from Czech immigrants and uses kolache dough instead of croissant dough. The savory filling, often a sausage, is wrapped in the dough, creating a delicious treat.
Serving
Smoked pigs in a blanket can be served as an appetizer, hors d'oeuvre, or as a main course. The smaller versions are perfect for parties and can be accompanied by mustard or aioli dipping sauces. They can also be served alongside other dishes during the main course. The larger versions are great for a quick and easy meal, especially for children.
Similar Dishes
Smoked pigs in a blanket have variations in cuisines around the world. In Belgium, a similar dish called avisance is made with sausage or sausage meat in bread dough, which is now commonly replaced with puff pastry. In Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, a hot dog wrapped in bread is known as a fransk hot dog or a french hot dog. In Denmark and Norway, American-style pigs in a blanket are known as pølsehorn, meaning sausage horns.
In Germany, würstchen im schlafrock translates to sausage in a dressing gown. This dish uses sausages wrapped in puff pastry or, occasionally, pancakes. It may also include cheese and bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are my pigs in a blanket soggy?
- What can you use instead of crescent roll dough for pigs in a blanket?
- What are pigs in a blanket called around the world?
- Can you use hot dogs for pigs in a blanket?
- How can you take pigs in a blanket to the next level?
- What dips can you serve with pigs in a blanket?
If your pigs in a blanket turn out soggy, it could be due to underbaking or using too much sauce. To avoid this, make sure to bake them until the dough is golden brown and crispy. Additionally, if you're using a sauce, try not to overly saturate the dough.
If you don't have crescent roll dough, you can use refrigerated biscuit dough or puff pastry as alternatives. Cut the biscuit dough into strips to fit the sausages or use puff pastry sheets after thawing. Keep a careful eye on the bake time, as it may vary with different dough types.
While Americans refer to them as pigs in a blanket, this dish is known by different names in various countries. In the Netherlands, it's called worstenbroodje, in Mexico, it's called salchitaco, and in Estonia, it's known as viineripirukas. One interesting variation is the Israeli version called moshe ba'tevia, which translates to moses in the basket.
Absolutely! Hot dogs work great for pigs in a blanket. You can also use other pre-cooked sausages like chicken sausage, andouille, or smoked sausage. Adjust the size of the dough accordingly, leaving some space between each sausage on the baking sheet.
To elevate your pigs in a blanket, you can sprinkle them with toppings like poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or everything bagel seasoning. You can also add a slice of pickle or jalapeño inside each sausage for a flavorful surprise.
This recipe includes three delicious dipping sauces: spicy mayo, ranch dip, and maple dijon mustard dip. You can also serve them with classic condiments like yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or ketchup.
Smoked pigs in a blanket are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or party snack. With their combination of smoky sausages and buttery pastry, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, the next time you're planning a menu, consider adding smoked pigs in a blanket for a crowd-pleasing option that everyone will love.
If you want to know other articles similar to Delicious smoked pigs in a blanket: a tasty twist you can visit the Appetizers category.
Related Articles