Blood sausage

Blood sausage is a type of sausage made by cooking blood or dried blood with a filler until it is thick enough to congeal when cooled. The dish exists in various cultures from around the world.

History

The practice of making blood sausage can be traced back to times when humans were hunters-gatherers. The ancient Greeks and Romans are known to have made blood sausage, and it is likely that its history goes back even further.

Preparation

The basic ingredients of blood sausage are animal blood, a filler, and often onions. The blood is typically from pigs, but can also be from cows, sheep, ducks, or goats. The filler can be bread, rice, barley, or oatmeal. In Europe, the filler often includes meat, fat, suet, bread, cornmeal, onion, chestnuts, barley, and oatmeal. In Spain and Asia, rice is often used. The ingredients are mixed together, then stuffed into a casing and cooked.

Varieties

There are many varieties of blood sausage throughout the world. In the United Kingdom, it is known as "black pudding" and is often served as part of a traditional full breakfast. In Spain, it is called "morcilla" and is often served with vegetables or rice. In Germany, it is known as "blutwurst" and is often served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. In Asia, blood sausage is often made with rice and served with soy sauce.

Cultural significance

Blood sausage has cultural significance in many cultures. In the United Kingdom, black pudding is considered a delicacy in the North of England and Scotland. In Spain, morcilla is a traditional part of tapas. In Germany, blutwurst is a traditional part of Christmas dinners.

Health aspects

Blood sausage is high in protein, iron, and zinc. However, it is also high in fat and cholesterol, and should be eaten in moderation.

See also

• List of sausages
• List of blood dishes