Pigs in Blankets (German Cabbage Rolls) Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen, where I am excited to share with you my recipe for Pigs in Blankets, also known as German Cabbage Rolls. This dish is a classic comfort food that can satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. The combination of savory ground beef, rice, and onion wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a tomato sauce will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Growing up, my mother would make this dish for special occasions, and it quickly became a family favorite. Now, I want to share this delicious and easy-to-make recipe with you so that you can enjoy it with your loved ones.

Not only is this recipe simple to follow, but it is also budget-friendly, making it perfect for those who want to make a hearty meal without breaking the bank. So, let’s grab our aprons and get ready to make some pigs in blankets!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for the colder months? Look no further than this recipe for Pigs in Blankets, also known as German Cabbage Rolls. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of ground beef and rice, all smothered in a delicious tomato sauce. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. Despite its impressive appearance, this dish is actually quite simple to put together. All you need are a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, and you’ll have a piping hot plate of deliciousness ready to go.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your tastes by adding in different herbs and spices, or swapping out the beef for ground pork or turkey. You can even make it vegetarian by using a meat substitute or omitting the meat altogether.

But perhaps the best thing about Pigs in Blankets is how comforting and satisfying it is. The tender cabbage leaves and hearty filling are the perfect antidote to a chilly evening, and the tomato sauce adds just the right amount of tangy sweetness to tie everything together.

In short, if you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion, you can’t go wrong with this recipe for Pigs in Blankets. So why not give it a try tonight and see for yourself why it’s such a beloved classic?

Ingredient List

These savory German cabbage rolls are packed with a flavorful pork filling and wrapped in tender cabbage leaves.

Let’s start with the recipe ingredients. To make 8-10 pigs in blankets, you will need:

1 head of large cabbage
2 lbs of ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 cup of rice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can of tomato juice or tomato sauce
Water for boiling cabbage
Sauerkraut and mustard (optional)

This rolls recipe ingredients list may seem simple, but the taste is anything but that. With a combination of ground beef, rice, and onion, the filling in these cabbage rolls is moist and flavorful. The cabbage leaves add a nice crunch, and the tomato juice or sauce gives the dish a tangy and zesty flavor. If you prefer a spicier taste, add sauerkraut and mustard to the mix.

The Recipe How-To

The perfect appetizer for any party or gathering, these pigs in blankets are sure to be a hit with your guests.

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage Leaves

First, I prepare the cabbage leaves by removing the core from a large head of cabbage. Then, I place it in a large pot of boiling water and let it soften for about 5 minutes. Once the leaves are tender, I remove them from the water and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Next, I mix together 2 lbs of ground beef and 1 cup of rice with 1 diced onion and season it with salt and pepper. I then roll the mixture into small meatballs.

Step 3: Roll the Cabbage Rolls

Once the cabbage leaves have cooled down, I place a small meatball in the center of each leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides as I go. I place each roll seam-side down in a large baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

I pour a mixture of tomato juice and water over the cabbage rolls, making sure they are fully covered. I also add a can of tomato sauce to the mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

I cover the baking dish with foil and bake the cabbage rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour. After an hour, I remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cabbage rolls are fully cooked, I serve them hot with some sauerkraut mustard on the side. They are delicious on their own or paired with some puff pastry for a heartier meal.

Note: This recipe can also be made with a mixture of ground beef and pork or substituted with Hungarian stuffed cabbage or German stuffed cabbage. The dish is also commonly known as pigs in blankets or cabbage pigs blanket in German cuisine.

Substitutions and Variations

With crispy edges and a juicy center, these cabbage rolls are a delicious treat for any meat lover.

If you’re looking to switch up this recipe a bit, there are a few simple substitutions and variations you can try. Here are some ideas:

– Instead of ground beef, you can use a blend of ground pork and beef, or ground turkey for a healthier option.

– If you’re not a fan of cabbage, you can use grape leaves or collard greens instead. These will give the rolls a slightly different flavor and texture, but they’ll still be delicious.

– For a vegetarian option, you can use a mixture of rice, onions, and mushrooms instead of the meat. You can also try adding some chopped nuts or tofu for extra protein.

– If you want to make this recipe a bit spicier, you can add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also use a spicy tomato sauce instead of regular tomato juice.

– Instead of using cabbage leaves to wrap the meatballs, you can use puff pastry or phyllo dough. This will give the rolls a flakier crust and a different texture.

– If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making Hungarian stuffed cabbage or German stuffed cabbage. These variations use slightly different spices and ingredients, but the basic method is the same.

No matter how you choose to make these pigs in blankets, they’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So get creative and have fun with it!

Serving and Pairing

The combination of savory pork and tender cabbage creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Once your German cabbage rolls, or pigs in blankets, are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy the delicious flavors! These cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. One of the best ways to serve them is with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and sauerkraut mustard. The tangy and slightly sweet flavor of the sauerkraut mustard pairs perfectly with the savory meat and cabbage flavors of the rolls.

Another great pairing for these pigs in blankets is a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette helps to cut through the richness of the meat, while the fresh greens add a pop of color and texture to the plate. You can also pair these cabbage rolls with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc.

If you’re serving these rolls as a main course, you can also include a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any of the delicious tomato sauce left on the plate. The tomato sauce is an essential component of this recipe, as it adds a rich and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the cabbage and meat.

No matter how you choose to serve and pair these pigs in blankets, one thing is for sure – they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

These pigs in blankets are a great way to introduce your friends and family to traditional German cuisine.

If you’re planning to make these pigs in blankets in advance, you can easily prepare them a day or two before serving. Once cooked, let them cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the oven, covered with foil, at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either microwave them or reheat them in the oven. If you choose to microwave them, place them on a microwave-safe dish and reheat them in 30-second intervals until heated through.

If you want to freeze the pigs in blankets, you can do so either before or after cooking them. If you choose to freeze them before cooking, prepare the recipe as instructed, but instead of baking them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bake them as directed.

If you choose to freeze them after cooking, let them cool to room temperature, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bake them covered with foil at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

In summary, these pigs in blankets are a great option for meal prep and make-ahead cooking. You can store them easily and reheat them whenever you need a quick and delicious meal.

Tips for Perfect Results

The golden brown exterior of these cabbage rolls is a testament to the perfect cooking technique.

Now that you have all the ingredients and know how to make Pigs in Blankets (German Cabbage Rolls), it’s time to focus on how to achieve perfect results. Here are some tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the years to make sure your dish turns out delicious every time:

1. Choose the right cabbage: Make sure to select a cabbage head with large, sturdy leaves that are not too thick or too thin. The leaves should be easy to roll without tearing. If you can’t find the right cabbage, you can also use savoy cabbage, which is more delicate, but also delicious.

2. Soften the cabbage leaves: Boiling water is the key to soften the cabbage leaves before rolling. It makes them pliable and easier to work with. Be careful not to overcook the leaves, or they will become too soft and tear easily.

3. Use the right amount of filling: Overfilling the cabbage rolls can cause them to burst while cooking, resulting in a mess. On the other hand, underfilling them can lead to dryness. Use a tablespoon to measure the filling and roll the cabbage leaves tightly to avoid any air pockets.

4. Brown the meat: Browning the meat before mixing it with the other ingredients adds flavor and texture. It also removes excess fat, making the dish healthier.

5. Bake covered: Covering the dish with foil or a lid keeps the moisture in, making the cabbage rolls tender and juicy. Remove the cover during the last 15 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and crisp up.

6. Let it rest: Allow the Pigs in Blankets to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This will allow the flavors to meld and the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the perfect Pigs in Blankets (German Cabbage Rolls) every time!

FAQ

Before we wrap up this Pigs in Blankets (German Cabbage Rolls) recipe article, let’s go through some frequently asked questions (FAQ). These questions and answers will give you more insight into the recipe, help you troubleshoot potential issues, and make your cooking experience a breeze.

What are pigs in a blanket called in Germany?

In Germany, there is a beloved dish called Würstchen im Schlafrock, which translates to sausages wrapped in pyjamas. This dish features small cocktail sausages that are a hit with locals.

What is the difference between Halupki and Golumpki?

These cabbage rolls are a beloved dish in my Polish family, known as Gołąbki or Golumpki. However, in Slovak areas, they go by the name Halupki. Despite the varying names, one thing is for sure – they are absolutely delicious. Some people even refer to them as “stuffed cabbage leaves” or “cabbage casserole.”

Is pigs in a blanket German?

For a lip-smacking snack that’s perfect for Oktoberfest, you can’t go wrong with German-Style Pigs in a Blanket. This recipe features juicy bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, and zesty mustard, all wrapped up in flaky puff pastry. Pigs in a Blanket are a classic comfort food enjoyed by people of all ages, making them an ideal treat for both adults and kids alike. So, let’s get cooking!

Why are cabbage rolls called pigs in a blanket?

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a budget-friendly and nutritious meal option. In my hometown near Chicago, we used to call them “pigs in a blanket” due to the pork filling wrapped in a cabbage “blanket.” These rolls were a popular choice for church basement celebrations like weddings and anniversaries.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this pigs in blankets (German cabbage rolls) recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty and flavorful meals. With a combination of ground beef, rice, onions, and cabbage leaves, this dish packs a punch of deliciousness in every bite. This recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion or weeknight dinner.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be easily customized to your liking. From substituting the ground beef with pork, to adding sauerkraut or mustard to the tomato sauce, the possibilities are endless.

In addition, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Overall, I highly recommend giving this pigs in blankets (German cabbage rolls) recipe a try. It is a classic dish that is loved by many and is sure to become a favorite in your household as well. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of this recipe.