Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this delightful twist on a classic: Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage! This recipe takes the comforting concept of pigs in a blanket and gives it a vibrant, vegetable-forward makeover, resulting in a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks will master.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey – your choice!)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Building the "Pigs":
- Add the ground sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
Bringing it all Together:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the sausage mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Tips for the Best Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage:
- Cabbage Selection: Choose a firm, fresh head of cabbage for the best results. Avoid cabbage that shows signs of wilting or discoloration.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage.
- Liquid Adjustment: If the cabbage seems too dry during cooking, add a little more chicken broth. Conversely, if it's too wet, increase the heat slightly to allow more liquid to evaporate.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
- Apple & Sausage: Add diced apple to the skillet along with the onion for a sweet and savory combination.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary based on the type of sausage used. Consider using a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your specific ingredients. Generally, this dish is a good source of fiber and protein, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
This Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s a testament to how simple, homemade cooking can produce delicious and satisfying results. Enjoy!