Give your Christmas table a delicious twist this year with pigs in blankets made with pancetta! Using pancetta instead of bacon gives a richer, slightly sweeter flavour with a delicate melt-in-your-mouth texture. Pancetta also has a more nuanced seasoning, often with herbs and spices, which adds depth to your festive favourites.

This recipe works beautifully with Eversfield Organic pork sausages or pork chipolatas, and is perfect for adding a touch of gourmet flair to your roast dinner.

Ingredients (serves 4–6)

• 12 Eversfield Organic pork chipolatas or Organic Pork sausages

• 12 slices of pancetta (thinly sliced)

• 1–2 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for a glaze)

• Fresh rosemary sprigs, finely chopped

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional:

• Toothpicks for securing

Method

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.

2. Wrap the sausages: Take each sausage or chipolata and wrap a slice of pancetta around it. Secure with a toothpick if needed.

3. Season: Lightly brush the wrapped sausages with olive oil. Sprinkle over chopped rosemary and a little black pepper. For a touch of sweetness, drizzle with maple syrup or honey.

4. Bake: Place the pancetta-wrapped sausages on a lined baking tray and bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even crisping. The pancetta should be golden and crispy, while the sausages remain juicy.

5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Perfect as a festive starter, side, or party snack!

Why Pancetta?

• Enhanced flavour: Pancetta has a richer, more nuanced taste than regular streaky bacon.

• Tender and silky texture: It crisps beautifully but stays delicate and buttery.

• Gourmet twist: Adds a restaurant-quality feel to a traditional Christmas favourite.

Tips & Tricks:

• Try adding a small sliver of apple or sage inside the pancetta wrap for an extra flavour punch.

• For larger gatherings, double the recipe and keep warm in the oven at 120°C until ready to serve.