Alternative names Gudighi Place of origin United States, Italy | Type Sausage | |
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Region or state Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Michigan, United States Similar Gerber sandwich, Pasty, Jibarito, Beef on weck, Fried‑brain sandwich | ||
Cudighi sandwich remains staple in the yooper diet
Cudighi (/ˈkʊdəɡiː/) is a spicy Italian sausage that can be bought in links or served as a sandwich on a long, hard roll, often with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. Although it originated in Italy, it is now primarily served in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in the United States.
Contents
- Cudighi sandwich remains staple in the yooper diet
- Cudighi tradition continues in ishpeming
- Preparation
- History
- References
Cudighi tradition continues in ishpeming
Preparation
Cudighi can be served many ways in many Italian dishes. As a sandwich, it was originally served with raw onions and mustard on a roll, but is today typically served with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. Additional toppings may include mushrooms, onions, and green peppers.
The taste of Cudighi varies with the amount of clove and cinnamon present in the mix.
History
Cudighi originated in Northern Italy, although it is now primarily served in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, particularly in Marquette County. The sandwich and its distinctive sausage were first sold in northern Michigan by Italian immigrants in 1936, who called it Gudighi. The sandwich was originally dressed with mustard and onions; using tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese as toppings became popular following World War II.
Cudighi seems to be derived from Cotechino, an old Lombard word for a fresh sausage made from pork, fatback, and pork rind. The modern recipe for what is known as "Cudighi" is likely highly specific to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
