Czernina

Czernina, a traditional Polish soup, is crafted primarily from duck blood and a clear poultry broth, though hen, rabbit, or pig blood can also be used. Often referred to as "duck soup" or "duck blood soup" in English, this dish features a distinctive sweet and sour flavor, achieved by balancing sugar and vinegar.

There are numerous variations of czernina, reflecting regional differences across Poland, Belarus, and Lithuania. Common ingredients include plum or pear syrup, dried fruits, apple vinegar, and honey. It is typically served with kluski (fine noodles), macaroni, boiled potatoes, or dumplings, akin to many other Polish soups.

Historically, czernina played a symbolic role in Polish culture, particularly in courtship rituals. When a young man proposed, he might be served czernina, with the color of the soup indicating the outcome. Black czernina signified acceptance, while golden czernina (made without duck blood) denoted rejection. This cultural practice is famously mentioned in Adam Mickiewicz's epic poem "Pan Tadeusz."

Czernina is particularly popular in regions such as Kashubia, Masuria, and Poznań and bears some resemblance to the Swedish dish svartsoppa.