What is Cotechino Cotto?
Cotechino cotto is a traditional Italian pork sausage that originated in Modena, Italy. It is made by cooking a mixture of finely ground pork meat, fatback, and spices inside natural casings. Cotechino cotto is typically served during the holiday season with lentils to bring good luck in the coming year. This savory sausage has a rich flavor and tender texture that makes it a favorite in Italian cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cotechino sausage
- 1 onion, peeled and halved
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Follow these simple steps to prepare a mouthwatering cotechino cotto:
Step 1: Prepare the Cotechino
Place the cotechino sausage in a large pot and cover it with cold water. Let it soak for at least 2 hours or overnight. This step helps to remove excess salt and impurities from the sausage.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In a separate pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender and fragrant. This will enhance the flavors in the dish.
Step 3: Boil the Sausage
Drain the water from the cotechino sausage and add it to the pot with the cooked vegetables. Pour in the 4 cups of water, add the bay leaf and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the sausage to become tender.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cotechino cotto is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the sausage and serve it with lentils, polenta, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy the rich and flavorful cotechino cotto with your loved ones!
Now that you know how to prepare a delicious cotechino cotto, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking. Follow this step-by-step guide, and impress your family and friends with your Italian culinary skills. Buon appetito!