As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to start planning those festive feasts that bring loved ones together. While classic Christmas dishes like roast turkey and glazed ham often steal the spotlight, it’s also fun to incorporate new flavors and recipes into your holiday spread. This year, why not shake things up with a delicious twist on tradition: Brussels sprouts and smashed pigs in blankets?
Brussels sprouts, once a misunderstood and oft-maligned vegetable, have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity in recent years. When prepared correctly, these mini cabbages can be transformed into a delectable side dish that even the staunchest sprout skeptics will love. Paired with the savory goodness of pigs in blankets, a beloved holiday staple, this dish is sure to become a new Christmas favorite.
The Ingredients:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- Two tablespoons of olive oil
- Three cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Smashed Pigs in Blankets:
- 12 cocktail sausages
- Six slices streaky bacon, halved crosswise
- Two tablespoons of whole-grain mustard
- One tablespoon honey
- One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
3. Prepare the Smashed Pigs in Blankets:
- In a small bowl, mix the whole-grain mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap each cocktail sausage with a piece of halved streaky bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the wrapped sausages.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the sausages from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Using the back of a fork or a potato masher, gently smash each sausage to flatten slightly.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- Arrange the smashed pigs in blankets on a serving platter.
- Spoon the roasted Brussels sprouts around the pigs in blankets, creating a festive and inviting presentation.
- Drizzle the mustard-honey sauce over the smashed pigs in blankets, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Brussels sprouts and smashed pigs in blankets hot alongside your favorite holiday mains and sides.
- Watch as your guests dig into this unique and flavorful dish, savoring the combination of savory sausages, crispy bacon, and tender Brussels sprouts.
- Sit back, relax, and bask in the warm glow of holiday cheer as you indulge in this delicious twist on tradition.
This Christmas, elevate your holiday feast with a memorable and mouthwatering dish that combines the best of both worlds: Brussels sprouts and smashed pigs in blankets. From the crispy bacon-wrapped sausages to the caramelized Brussels sprouts, every bite is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering with family and friends or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds. Merry Christmas and happy cooking!