There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a traditional dish, especially when you can elevate it into something extraordinary. One evening, as I rummaged through my freezer, I unearthed a pack of plump pigs in blankets, just begging for a twist. That’s when it hit me – why not transform them into an irresistible battered delight?
Picture this: crispy, golden blankets, wrapped around savory sausages, all drizzled with rich chip shop curry sauce and a hearty beef gravy. This battered pigs in blankets recipe not only brings a touch of nostalgia but also adds a playful twist to your weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect solution for anyone looking to shake off the fast-food fatigue without sacrificing flavor.
So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to wow your friends and family, while giving your taste buds a little adventure!
Why Love This Battered Pigs in Blankets Recipe?
Crispy Perfection: Each bite boasts a golden crust that encases the succulent sausages, offering a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy filling.
Comfort Meets Adventure: This recipe combines the classic comfort of pigs in blankets with an exciting battered twist, perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in.
Quick and Easy: You can serve up deliciousness in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a mouthwatering meal without the hassle.
Versatile Dipping Sauces: Pair it with your favorite curry sauce and gravy for a flavor explosion. This dish encourages creativity—experiment with different sauces!
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests with this unique dish that combines nostalgia and originality, appealing to both young and old at your gatherings.
Battered Pigs in Blankets Ingredients
For the Battered Treats
• M&S pigs in blankets – These savory sausages wrapped in bacon are the star of your dish and provide a classic flavor.
• M&S pancake and Yorkshire pudding batter mix – A quick and simple way to achieve that perfect crispy coating without any fuss.
• Vegetable oil – Essential for deep frying; ensure it’s heated to 180°C for the crispiest finish.
For the Sauces
• M&S chip shop curry sauce – This rich sauce complements the battered pigs in blankets beautifully, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
• M&S beef gravy – A hearty gravy that adds depth and earthy taste, perfect to drizzle over your creation.
Get ready to indulge in this battered pigs in blankets recipe that will bring smiles to everyone at the table!
How to Make Battered Pigs in Blankets
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. Spread the pigs in blankets out in a baking dish and let them bake for 15 minutes until cooked through and slightly crispy.
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Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, pour in the pancake and Yorkshire pudding batter mix. Gradually whisk in 100ml of cold water, stirring until smooth. Don’t forget to season it with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor!
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Heat the Oil: In a high-sided saucepan, add vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat until it reaches a sizzling 180°C. You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil – it should sizzle right away!
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Dip and Fry: Take each pig in the blankets, dip them into the batter, then gently place them into the hot oil. Fry for about 5 to 6 minutes until they’re crispy and golden brown. When done, place them on kitchen paper to drain any excess oil.
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Heat the Sauces: While the pigs are frying, heat the chip shop curry sauce and beef gravy according to the package instructions. This will ensure they are warm and ready to serve!
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Season and Serve: Once everything’s ready, season your battered pigs in blankets with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of vinegar for an added kick. Serve them hot with the warm curry sauce and beef gravy drizzled on top.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Battered Pigs in Blankets
Crispiness Factor: Always ensure your oil is at a precise 180°C before frying. If it’s too cool, your battered pigs in blankets could turn soggy!
Batter Bliss: For a lighter batter, try adding a splash of sparkling water. This addition lends a delightful airiness to the coating!
Even Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry in batches for an even cook and perfect crispiness—this battered pigs in blankets recipe deserves it!
Season Smart: Remember to season your batter with salt and pepper, and don’t skip the final sprinkle of salt after frying for that extra punch of flavor.
Serve Fresh: These are best enjoyed immediately after frying, so plan to have your sauces heated and ready for dipping when they come out of the oil!
How to Store and Freeze Battered Pigs in Blankets
Fridge: Store any leftover battered pigs in blankets in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and crispiness.
Freezer: Wrap each fried pig in blankets tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. They can last up to 2 months, ensuring you get to enjoy this tasty treat later!
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in an oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes to restore the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Serving Tips: Enjoy your frozen battered pigs in blankets recipe during those busy weeknights—simply bake and dip in your favorite sauces!
Battered Pigs in Blankets Variations
Feel free to switch things up and make this dish your own with these delicious twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a zesty heat that brings an exciting dimension to each bite.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix some cheddar cheese into the batter for a melty twist, creating a delightful, gooey center that complements the sausages perfectly.
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Herbed Batter: Enhance the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme into the batter, adding a fragrant note to your crispy creation.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the Yorkshire pudding mix with a gluten-free batter mix to cater to dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious coated treat.
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Sweet Twist: For a dessert version, use maple syrup in the batter for a hint of sweetness, pairing well with a drizzle of chocolate sauce afterward.
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Veggie Option: Swap traditional sausages for plant-based alternatives to create a delightful vegetarian version without sacrificing taste.
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Curry Infusion: Blend a bit of curry powder into the batter for a flavor-packed coating that complements the chip shop curry sauce.
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Panko Crunch: Boost the crunch factor by using panko breadcrumbs in place of the Yorkshire pudding mix for an extra crispy exterior that’s absolutely irresistible.
What to Serve with Battered Pigs in Blankets?
To create a full dining experience that beautifully complements your crispy bites, consider these delightful pairings.
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Crispy Fries: The golden crunch of fries adds a satisfying texture that harmonizes with the battered delights, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Coleslaw: This refreshing, crunchy salad brings a zesty twist, balancing the richness of the gravy and sauce. It’s a light, vibrant contrast!
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides an aromatic touch. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce—no flavor left behind!
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Beer: A chilled lager or ale pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the battered pigs, creating a satisfying flavor marriage for a casual evening.
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Garden Peas: These sweet, fresh peas add a pop of color and a natural sweetness to the plate, balancing out the savory elements beautifully.
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Apple Sauce: The tang of apple sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory and spicy notes of the dish, heightening the overall experience.
For an adventurous twist, why not explore unique sauces or dips? Experimenting can lead to thrilling flavor discoveries that elevate your meal even further!
Make Ahead Options
These battered pigs in blankets recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the pigs in blankets up to 24 hours in advance, letting them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the batter, prepare it and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days to ensure its freshness. When ready to serve, preheat your oil and dip the refrigerated pigs in blankets into the chilled batter, frying them until they’re golden and crispy. This method keeps the dish just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Battered Pigs in Blankets Recipe FAQs
What type of sausages should I use for the battered pigs in blankets?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality sausages that are juicy and flavorful, like M&S pigs in blankets, which are wrapped in bacon. They bring a great balance of taste and texture, making them the perfect choice for this recipe.
How should I store the leftover battered pigs in blankets?
Make sure to place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will keep well for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness!
Can I freeze the battered pigs in blankets?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze them! To do so, wrap each fried pig in blankets tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the freezer at 180°C for around 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What do I do if the batter doesn’t stick to the sausages?
If you find that the batter isn’t adhering well, make sure to dry the pigs in blankets lightly with a paper towel before dipping them. Additionally, consider chilling the batter for about 15 minutes in the fridge before use, as this can help it cling better and create that delightful crispy texture you’re aiming for.
Can pets eat pigs in blankets?
It’s best to keep pigs in blankets away from pets, especially if they contain seasonings and high-fat content. The bacon wrapping could be too rich and salty for pets, so ensure you have a safe, delicious alternative ready for your furry friends when you’re serving this batter pigs in blankets recipe!
Crispy Battered Pigs in Blankets Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. Spread the pigs in blankets in a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through and slightly crispy.
- In a mixing bowl, pour in the pancake and Yorkshire pudding batter mix. Gradually whisk in 100ml of cold water and season with salt and pepper.
- Add vegetable oil to a saucepan and heat over medium heat until it reaches 180°C.
- Take each pig in blankets, dip them into the batter, and fry for about 5 to 6 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- While frying, heat the chip shop curry sauce and beef gravy according to package instructions.
- Season the battered pigs in blankets with salt and vinegar before serving hot with curry sauce and beef gravy.