Cotechino is an Italian sausage made with pork shoulder and rind, seasoned with a blend of pepper and spices.

A traditional Italian winter essential that shines at festive suppers, Christmas and New Year’s dinners. Traditionally savoured with lentils at midnight, it brings good luck for the forthcoming year, but can be enjoyed throughout December.

It has been part of Modena’s history and dates back to the XVI century, when Papa Giulio’s troops, facing starvation, grounded pig meat and preserved it pork rind – preventing it from falling into enemy hands.

This pre-cooked Cotechino requires 30 minutes of boiling in its sealed envelope. Once cooked, drain the liquid. Slice and serve as a main on a bed of lentils. PS: remove the casing before indulging.