day · fixed · day 77 of 365

National Black Pudding Day

Savoring blood sausage connects taste buds to rich culinary traditions, blending savory notes that captivate discerning palates.

Countries & Cultures Food & Drink Meat42

Marketing angleinferred

Celebrate British and Irish culinary heritage by promoting black pudding specials and creative recipes to food enthusiasts and heritage-conscious diners.

Relevance 42medium intent

Share traditional Irish fry-up recipes featuring black pudding with bacon, eggs, and soda bread
Spotlight modern black pudding twists like sausage rolls with chorizo or salads with caramelized apples
Partner with pubs and restaurants to offer limited-time black pudding tasting menus or specials
Create behind-the-scenes content on the 14th-century craft and regional variations (Stornoway, Scottish, Irish, French, Spanish)

History

The idea behind National Black Pudding Day is to celebrate the craft behind black pudding, which is a traditional product from Britain and Ireland.

Having enjoyed a revival of popularity in recent years, black pudding is a diverse and delicious food with an interesting history that goes back to at least the 14th century.

Although there are some variations on flavor, the versions of black pudding from Scotland, Ireland, as well as France and Spain, are basically the same food.

Black pudding is a sort of sausage that is typically made from pork blood, or sometimes beef blood, and combined with various fillers such as oats, suet and spices. One particular kind of black pudding, called Stornoway, includes sheep’s lungs as well as the other standard ingredients.

The Irish version of National Black Pudding Day was launched in 2019 when it was started by a collaboration of butchers and chefs including The Smokin’ Butcher, Hugh Macguire, and Darina Allen. The day has been celebrated in early November in Ireland but didn’t gain traction in other places.

Beginning in 2024, a Scottish and UK version of National Black Pudding Day was planned through the support of the National Craft Butchers and Scottish Craft Butchers.

With the hope that this foodstuff will receive similar attention as its famous cousin, haggis, National Black Pudding Day has been called for by various people including Scotland’s Black Pudding Champion, butcher Nigel Ovens.

How to celebrate

Eat Some Black Pudding

Those who live in a place where black pudding is accessible at a local restaurant or pub, National Black Pudding Day would be the perfect time to head on out and celebrate by ordering up a full Irish or an “Irish fry-up”. Enjoy the black pudding with bacon rashers, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, and obviously some traditional Irish soda bread.

Try a New Black Pudding Recipe

With the opportunity to grill, fry, bake, simmer or even microwave black pudding, there are all sorts of ways that black pudding can be prepared. But for those who want to go beyond just the traditional, perhaps National Black Pudding Day would be the right time to get a bit creative. Consider some of these interesting recipes to try that feature black pudding: Black pudding sausage rolls with chorizo, and goat cheeseBlack pudding salad with caramelized apples and honey mustard dressingBlack pudding breakfast with diced garlic potatoes and baked eggsBlack pudding on sourdough with smashed avocado

FAQ

Did black pudding inspire any unusual competitions?

Yes, the World Black Pudding Throwing Championships in Ramsbottom, England, is a quirky event. Participants hurl black puddings at a stack of Yorkshire puddings atop a platform. This playful contest draws a lively crowd every year.

Are there any myths or superstitions linked to black pudding?

Some folklore claims that hanging a black pudding in the chimney could ward off evil spirits. This belief highlights its symbolic role in some cultures.

How do different cultures incorporate black pudding into their cuisines?

In Spain, morcilla (black pudding) is enjoyed in stews or tapas. In France, boudin noir pairs with apples or mashed potatoes. These variations reflect how black pudding adapts to different food traditions worldwide.

Has black pudding ever been banned or controversial?

Yes, during the 17th century, some English religious groups avoided black pudding, citing biblical dietary laws against consuming blood. These debates even led to temporary bans in certain communities.

Are there any health benefits associated with black pudding?

Black pudding is rich in iron and protein, essential for energy and blood health. Modern recipes often reduce fat to appeal to health-conscious eaters.

How has black pudding influenced popular culture?

Black pudding features in British TV and literature as a symbol of traditional working-class life. For example, it appears in long-running shows like Coronation Street.

Are there any unique festivals dedicated to black pudding?

Yes, the Foire au Boudin in Mortagne-au-Perche, France, celebrates black pudding with tastings and competitions. This annual event honors the region’s charcuterie traditions.

How did black pudding become a staple during wartime?

During World War II, black pudding was popular because it used readily available ingredients like animal blood and offal. These ingredients were not rationed, making it an affordable protein source when other meats were scarce. Its simplicity and nutrient value made it a key wartime food.

What’s the most unusual way black pudding has been served?

Some adventurous chefs have used black pudding in desserts. A notable example is black pudding ice cream, blending its savory and earthy flavor with sweet cream. It has been served in experimental restaurants to surprise diners with an unexpected twist.

Is black pudding celebrated differently in the U.S.?

In the U.S., black pudding is less common but has found a niche in artisanal food markets. Chefs in food hubs like New York and Portland have incorporated it into brunch menus, pairing it with gourmet eggs and sauces. Its growing popularity in niche food circles shows its adaptability to global trends.