Image by Matt Moloney

Pigs in blankets

Pigs in blankets: a delectable, savory feast that has been delighting the palates of all who are lucky enough to try it for centuries. This scrumptious combination of pork sausage and flaky pastry is a staple of holiday feasts and evenings in with friends, making it a classic crowd-pleaser.

Pigs in blankets


The origins of this dish are often debated, with some pointing to medieval England while others citing recipes from Northern Europe in the 1800s. Regardless of where the dish was first concocted, the succulent blend of pork, dough and savory spices has earned its place as a timeless treat.

For those who have yet to experience it, pigs in blankets is a simple but delectous treat. It starts with thin strips of pork sausage wrapped in a thin sheet of flaky puff pastry. The resulting bundle is hearty and flavorful, with a crunchy exterior and a juicy inside. The final product can then be seasoned to taste, with everything from paprika to garlic adding to the tantalizing flavors.

When served, pigs in blankets are usually slightly crisped and golden-brown, the ideal texture for a pleasant and scrumptious bite. Its pairing with condiments like ketchup and mustard adds an extra layer of flavor, one that no one in attendance will soon forget. Served as an entrée, side or snack, pigs in blankets are a delectably diverting morsel that transports its eaters to a state of gustatory nirvana.

Pigs in blankets have become so beloved in modern times, they even find themselves featured in buffets, high-end restaurants, and more. To accompany such a succulent staple, sides like gravy, mashed potatoes, and sauerkraut are often served. No matter what accompaniments are chosen to join this classic dish, Pigs in blankets always remain the star of the show.

While there is some disagreement over the exact course of pigs in blankets’ culinary journey throughout history, one thing is certain: this savory dish continues to please young and old alike, delighting our taste buds for centuries to come.

The origin of Pigs in blankets

When it comes to classic comfort food, there's nothing quite like the savory, smoky taste of pigs in blankets. But few people are aware of the origins of this tasty treat. Much like other popular dishes, what we now know as pigs in blankets has an interesting history that is rooted in cultures around the world.

The concept of wrapping food in dough is thought to have first originated in Germany during the Middle Ages. Historians believe that this dish was created as an inexpensive way for people to enjoy sausage, as it allowed them to stretch out meager rations of meat across several meals. Those early variations on the dish were likely more akin to a hot pocket or pocket sandwich, but the basic idea of wrapping food in a doughy blanket was there from the start.

The dish we now know as pigs in blankets can be traced back to the United Kingdom in the late 19th century. It's believed that the combination of sausages and pastry was popularized by English cookbooks of the time and it quickly became a common meal found in pubs and homes throughout the country. As the dish spread beyond England, it became known as pigs in a blanket due to its similarity to the American classic dish of hot dogs wrapped in a blanket of dough.

Since its humble beginnings, pigs in blankets have evolved into a beloved snack and meal around the world. Today, they come in a variety of shapes, sizes and flavors and can be served alongside a variety of sauces and relishes. And while the exact origin of the dish may never be known, it's clear that pigs in blankets will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.

FAQs about Pigs in blankets

Are pigs in blankets an English thing?

Yes, pigs in blankets are an English thing. They consist of small sausages wrapped in bacon or pastry and are popular in British cuisine.


What do Americans call pigs in blankets?

Americans commonly refer to pigs in blankets as "sausage in a blanket" or "pigs wrapped in a blanket".


What is the original pigs in a blanket?

The original pigs in a blanket refers to small sausages that are wrapped in pastry, usually croissant or puff pastry. The sausages can be any type, including breakfast, hot dogs, cocktail, or bratwursts.


Why are they called pigs in blankets?

Pigs in blankets are believed to have originated in Europe during the Middle Ages, when pork sausages were wrapped in pastry dough to preserve their flavor and keep them from drying out. The shape of the dough wrapping resembled a pig wrapped in a blanket, hence the name.


Types of Pigs in blankets

Pigs in blankets, a dish that has been tantalizing taste buds since the 16th century, is a delicacy that is cherished across the world. Whether it's served as part of a traditional Christmas dinner or a tasty snack, there can be no doubt that wrapped up little morsels of meaty goodness make for a delicious indulgence.

But not all Pigs in Blankets are created equal. Depending on where you are in the world, the preparation and ingredients used can vary greatly. In this article, we are going to explore some of the different types of Pigs in Blankets that have become popular over the years.

The classic Pigs in Blankets recipe calls for small sausage links to be wrapped in puff pastry and then baked in the oven. It is believed that this version was first created in Yorkshire, England in the 15th century. These days, a variety of different meats such as bacon, beef and even venison are commonly used. The pastry can also differ from the original version with variations such as flaky pastry, phyllo dough and even crêpes being used.

Another popular variety of Pigs in Blankets is the American-style version which is often cooked in the microwave or deep-fried. This type of dish is quite different from the traditional one as the meat is usually pre-cooked before it is wrapped up in the pastry. Typically, these Pigs in Blankets also contain some sort of high-fat cheese such as cheddar to add extra flavor and texture.

For those looking for a healthier option, there is the veggie-based version of Pigs in Blankets which evolved in the early 20th century. This version is made with vegetables such as peppers, mushrooms and onions instead of meat. The vegetables are usually wrapped in a low fat puff pastry and then baked in the oven much like the classic version.

Finally, we have the Asian-inspired version of this beloved dish. In this variation, small pieces of pork, beef or chicken are marinated in soy sauce, ginger, garlic and other spices before being wrapped in either bread or pastry dough and then fried in oil. This type of Pigs in Blankets is usually served as a side dish with a variety of other dishes.

No matter what version you choose, Pigs in Blankets are sure to be a crowd pleaser. So the next time you’re having guests over, why not whip up a few different types and let your guests decide which they like best!