Dish

Sanguinaccio

Chocolate pudding with pig's blood

Sanguinaccio is a dessert that is made by heating milk, sugar, and chocolate together until the mixture thickens. Pig's blood is then added to the mixture, which gives the dessert its distinctive flavor and texture. The mixture is then cooked until it is thick and pudding-like, and is typically served cold. Sanguinaccio has a rich, chocolatey flavor and a smooth, creamy texture that is similar to a chocolate pudding. The use of pig's blood in the recipe is traditional, but some modern recipes use other ingredients such as cream or cornstarch instead.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Italian cuisine

Dessert› Pudding

Origins and history

Sanguinaccio is a traditional Italian dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. The use of pig's blood in the recipe is traditional, and is said to have originated as a way to use up all parts of the pig during the winter months. Today, it is a popular dessert in many regions of Italy, and is often served at festivals and special occasions.

Dietary considerations

Sanguinaccio is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans as it contains pig's blood. It is also high in calories and sugar, so should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Variations

There are many variations of Sanguinaccio, including recipes that use different types of chocolate or add flavorings such as cinnamon or orange zest. Some recipes also use cream or cornstarch instead of pig's blood.

Presentation and garnishing

Sanguinaccio is traditionally served in individual ramekins or bowls. To garnish, sprinkle with cocoa powder or grated chocolate.

Tips & Tricks

To prevent the mixture from curdling, it is important to heat the milk and chocolate slowly and whisk constantly while adding the pig's blood. The mixture should be cooked until it is thick and pudding-like, but not too thick or it will become rubbery. If you are uncomfortable using pig's blood, you can substitute it with cream or cornstarch.

Side-dishes

Sanguinaccio is typically served on its own, but can also be served with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.

Drink pairings

Sanguinaccio is often served with sweet dessert wines such as Moscato d'Asti or Vin Santo. It can also be paired with a strong espresso or a cup of hot chocolate.