Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy? Then look no further! This Pigs in a Blanket with Cabbage recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering. It’s surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and provides a satisfyingly wholesome dinner the whole family will love. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork (or a mix of pork and beef)
- 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This simple step builds the flavour base of this delicious dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Pork
Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. For best results, ensure the pork is fully cooked.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Spices
Add the sliced cabbage, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage begins to soften.
Step 4: Simmer the Filling
Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cover the skillet. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir in the fresh parsley just before removing from heat. This slow cooking process allows the flavours to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough. Spoon a generous amount of the pork and cabbage mixture onto each crescent roll triangle. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Tips for the Best Pigs in a Blanket:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the pork mixture.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes works well too.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the pork and cabbage filling ahead of time and assemble the pigs in a blanket just before baking.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground pork with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian sausage.
Variations:
- Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling before rolling.
- Spicy Pigs in a Blanket: Add a diced jalapeño pepper to the filling for extra heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it as a standalone dish or with a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy!