1 Slice Blood Sausage (Blood Pudding) contains 94 calories. Blood Sausage, also commonly known as Blood Pudding, is a type of sausage made from animal blood, usually mixed with fillers such as fat, breadcrumbs or oats. It has a distinctive, dark color and a rich, intense flavor.

Nutritional Information of Blood Sausage: A slice of Blood Sausage weighing around 1 oz. contains approximately 94 calories, 3g of protein, 7g of fat and 3g of carbohydrates. It is also a good source of iron, zinc and vitamin B12.

In this article, we'll explore the many characteristics of blood sausage, including its nutritional value, benefits, preparation and cooking methods, and more.

What is Blood Sausage?

Blood sausage is a type of sausage made from animal blood that has been cooked and then mixed with a variety of fillers, such as fat, bread crumbs, or oats. The mixture is then stuffed into a casing and typically cooked by boiling or frying. The use of animal blood is what gives blood sausage its signature dark color and rich, intense flavor. It is a popular ingredient in many dishes around the world, especially in Europe and Latin America. Blood sausage can be made from a variety of animals, including pigs, cows, and even game like elk or deer. It is often referred to by different names depending on the region, such as black pudding in the UK, blutwurst in Germany or morcilla in Spain.

Nutritional Information of Blood Sausage

As mentioned earlier, a slice of Blood Sausage weighing around 1 oz. has approximately 94 calories. While it is high in fat, it is also a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The fat levels can also be reduced if leaner meat is used as the filler. Blood sausage is also high in protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue. Iron is critical for good health as it helps transport oxygen throughout the body, while zinc helps support the immune system.

The Benefits of Eating Blood Sausage

Blood sausage is a nutrient-dense food that can provide a range of health benefits. It is an excellent source of iron, which is particularly important for people who are at risk of anemia or iron deficiency. It is also a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Additionally, blood sausage contains a range of other important vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and vitamin B12. However, it is worth remembering that blood sausage is also high in fat and calories, so it should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparing and Cooking Blood Sausage

When cooking Blood Sausage, it is important to first remove the casing before cooking to avoid it from bursting. It is often boiled or fried in a pan until it is crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Blood sausage can be used in many recipes, including stews, casseroles or as a breakfast ingredient. It can also be sliced into rounds or cubes and eaten as a snack.

Traditional Dishes with Blood Sausage

Blood sausage is a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes around the world. In the UK, black pudding is often served as part of a full English breakfast. In Spain, morcilla is a key ingredient in tapas dishes, and in France, boudin noir is used in a popular dish known as boudin noir aux pommes. In Argentina, the traditional dish of choripán features a grilled blood sausage sandwiched between a crusty bread roll and topped with chimichurri sauce and other toppings. In Puerto Rico, they make a dish called morcilla guisada which is a stew made with blood sausage and chickpeas.

Health Risks Associated with Blood Sausage

While Blood Sausage can provide many health benefits, there are also some risks associated with eating it. It is high in fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in large quantities. There is also a risk of foodborne illness associated with blood sausage, particularly if it is prepared improperly or not cooked through thoroughly. It is important to ensure that blood sausage is cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F before consuming.

Blood Sausage versus Regular Sausage

While Blood Sausage and regular sausage may look similar, there are some key differences between the two. Regular sausage is typically made from ground meat and spices, while Blood Sausage contains a high proportion of animal blood, which gives it its unique flavor and color. Additionally, regular sausages are often higher in fat and calories than blood sausage, making it a slightly healthier option. However, both types of sausage should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Where to Buy Blood Sausage

Blood Sausage is often available at specialty markets or ethnic grocery stores. Many butchers also offer Blood Sausage, particularly around the holidays or during traditional celebrations. Online retailers that specialize in charcuterie and gourmet foods may also carry Blood Sausage. In some cases, it may be possible to order Blood Sausage online and have it shipped directly to your door.

Storage and Shelf Life of Blood Sausage

Blood Sausage should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days of purchase. It can also be frozen for up to three months, but may lose some of its flavor and texture during freezing. When storing Blood Sausage, it is important to keep it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.

Popular Recipes with Blood Sausage

There are many delicious recipes that feature Blood Sausage as a key ingredient. In Spain, morcilla is often used in traditional dishes like fabada asturiana, a hearty stew made with white beans and various meats. In the UK, black pudding is a staple of the full English breakfast, and can also be added to dishes like bubble and squeak, a fried vegetable dish. In Argentina, choripán is a popular street food that features grilled blood sausage and chimichurri sauce.