Polish Czernina

Czernina is a traditional Polish soup made from duck blood and broth, often incorporating duck offal like heart, liver, or gizzards, along with vegetables and dried fruits for a sweet-sour flavor. It is a classic dish from Polish cuisine, particularly associated with rural and festive traditions, sometimes served during holidays or family gatherings.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This soup is high in protein and fat due to the duck components, with minimal carbohydrates unless sweeteners or fruits are added. A typical serving provides a good source of iron, B vitamins, and minerals like potassium, with a calorie range of approximately 250-350 kcal per bowl.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	300 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	8 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	650 mg
Iron	4.5 mg
Potassium	420 mg
Vitamin B12	2.8 mcg
Vitamin A	180 mcg
Phosphorus	310 mg
Zinc	3.2 mg
Niacin (B3)	5.1 mg
Selenium	18 mcg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Czernina is unique for its use of duck blood, which symbolizes resourcefulness in using the whole animal, and its sweet-sour profile from vinegar or dried fruits like prunes. Nutritionally, it offers a dense nutrient profile with high-quality protein and essential micronutrients often lacking in modern diets.