Black pudding

Black pudding

A slice of black pudding
Type	Sausage
Place of origin	United Kingdom, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium, Germany
Region or state	Europe
Serving temperature	Hot or cold
Food energy (per serving)	235 kcal per 100g kcal
Other information	Also known as blood pudding, boudin noir, morcilla, blutwurst, bloedworst, sanguinaccio
Cookbook: Black pudding   Media: Black pudding

Black pudding is a type of sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal, fat, and spices. It is a traditional food in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium, and Germany. Black pudding is also known as blood pudding, boudin noir, morcilla, blutwurst, bloedworst, and sanguinaccio.

History

Black pudding has been a popular food in Europe for centuries. The ancient Romans made a similar sausage called mustaceum which was made from blood, wine, and spices. Black pudding was a common food during the Middle Ages and was often eaten with bread and ale.

In the United Kingdom, black pudding became popular during the 19th century, particularly in the north of England and Scotland. It was a staple food for the working class and was often served for breakfast.

Production

The production of black pudding begins with collecting pig's blood, which is mixed with oatmeal, fat, and spices. The mixture is then boiled, usually in a casing made from intestine, until it is firm. The resulting sausage is usually sliced and either fried or grilled.

The recipe for black pudding can vary depending on the region where it is made. In Spain, for example, black pudding (known as morcilla) often includes rice, while in Germany, it is made with beef blood instead of pork.

Serving and consumption

Black pudding can be served either hot or cold. It is often sliced and served as part of a cooked breakfast in the United Kingdom, along with other breakfast items such as eggs, bacon, and toast. In Spain, black pudding is often served as part of a tapas dish or as a side dish to a main meal.

Nutritional value

Black pudding is a good source of protein and iron. However, it is also high in fat and salt, so it should be consumed in moderation. A 100g serving of black pudding contains approximately 235 kcal.

Variations

Black pudding is made in different ways in different countries. In Spain, morcilla often includes rice, while in Portugal it is made with pork fat and spices. In France, black pudding is known as boudin noir and is often served with apple sauce. In Belgium, it is called bloedworst and is often served with apple sauce or mashed potatoes.

Cultural significance

Black pudding is an important part of the food culture in the countries where it is consumed. It has been a traditional food for centuries and is often associated with working-class cuisine. In the United Kingdom, black pudding is celebrated at the annual World Black Pudding Throwing Championship, which takes place in Ramsbottom, Lancashire.

In popular culture

Black pudding has been referenced in popular culture in various ways. In the 1980s, the British sitcom Only Fools and Horses featured a character named Trigger, who claimed to have owned the same broom for 20 years but had replaced the head 17 times and the handle 14 times. He explained that it was like the story of Trigger's Broom, and compared it to black pudding, which he claimed had the same recipe for centuries but was still the same pudding.

In the television show MasterChef in the United Kingdom, black pudding has been used as an ingredient in various dishes, including black pudding Scotch eggs and black pudding with apple and cider sauce.

Conclusion

Black pudding is a traditional sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal, fat, and spices. It is a popular food in many countries in Europe and has been consumed for centuries. Black pudding is often associated with working-class cuisine and is a good source of protein and iron, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and salt content. With its unique taste and cultural significance, black pudding remains a beloved food in the countries where it is consumed.

External links

BBC Food - Black pudding recipes black-pudding-recipes The Guardian - 14 ways with black pudding

Food & Wine - Best Black Pudding Recipes

• Portal:Food | Glossary of healthy eating | UK Foods | US Foods | Dietary Supplements | Nutrition values of foods
• Encyclopedia of nutrition | Calorie Finder | Nutrition Database | Glycemic Index of Foods | Protein rich foods list

External links

Nutrition lookup (USDA)