Morcela

Morcela is a traditional  and  black sausage typically served in a number of  regions. The black pudding made in the region of Guarda is recognized as having high quality, as well as the Azores and Portalegre. Norcela is made with a combination of pork (from pigs of the Alentejo breed), pork cheeks, and, which have been cut into relatively large pieces. Seasonings may include ground (or sweet pepper paste),, , garlic,  dried ,  (including  and ), and preservatives. Pig's blood is used as a binder, which gives consistency and dark color. It is smoked using wood from the, in a slow smoking process, at a temperature of 30 to 40 ºC (85-105 &deg;F) for a period of no less than three days.

It is produced in a shape with a reddish-brown color. Its interior is marbled and red in color. The length of the sausages varies from, and their approximate diameter is. The weight varies from.

It can be eaten raw, sliced very thinly, as an appetizer or with a good regional bread, or along with typical Portuguese dishes. When it is served cooked, it may be accompanied by boiled greens.

The Greek philosopher Plato claimed (Mithaïcos, 428 BCE) that this sausage was invented by the Greek Aftónitas.

Variants of morcela include morcela achouriçada (made from viscera with pork and back fat), morcela de arroz (with rice), morcela doce (flavored with pepper), and morcela de farinha (literally, flour sausage, with various kinds of flour added).

In Brazil it is also known as chouriço and is made with coagulated pig's blood.