Chorizo Soup

Chorizo Soup Recipe from Mexico with Onion, Masa, Chicken Broth, Jack Cheese, and Cilantro

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chorizo soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family. This soup is packed with bold flavors and comforting ingredients that will warm you up from the inside out.

History

Chorizo soup has its origins in Spanish and Mexican cuisine, where chorizo sausage is a popular ingredient in many dishes. The spicy and smoky flavor of chorizo adds a unique twist to traditional soup recipes, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of firm-texture chorizo
1 large onion, chopped (red, white, or yellow only) or 5 tbsp of onion powder
3 cloves of garlic, minced or 5 tbsp of garlic powder
0.5 cup of dehydrated masa flour or yellow cornmeal
3 diced roasted green chiles, with skins and seeds removed, or 1 can of chopped green chiles
7 cups of chicken broth, store-bought or homemade
4 tsp of paprika
0.75 cup of shredded jack cheese
0.5 cup of minced cilantro

How to prepare

Remove chorizo casings and crumble it into a 5- to 6 qt (5.68-liter) pan. Add the onion and garlic, or onion powder and garlic powder. Stir frequently over medium-high heat until the meat and onion are browned, approximately 15 minutes.
Mix masa with the chorizo base, then stir in chiles, paprika, and chicken broth.
Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring often. Simmer gently for 20 minutes to blend flavors, stirring frequently.
Skim any accumulated fat from the surface and discard.
Ladle the soup into bowls and add cheese and cilantro to taste. Serve warm and plain with any main dish, side dish, or appetizer.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra vegetables and texture.
Use different types of chiles or spices to customize the flavor profile of the soup.
Substitute the jack cheese with a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the chorizo casings before cooking to ensure that the meat crumbles easily.

- Stir the soup frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

- Skim any excess fat from the surface of the soup before serving to reduce the overall fat content.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chorizo soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also garnish the soup with additional cheese, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Crumble the chorizo sausage before cooking to ensure that it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.

- Simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find chorizo sausage, you can substitute with another type of spicy sausage or ground meat.

- Use corn flour or cornstarch instead of dehydrated yellow cornmeal if needed.

- Swap out the roasted green chiles for canned green chiles or fresh jalapenos for a different level of heat.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chorizo soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving, adding additional broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chorizo soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of cheese and a few cilantro leaves for a colorful and appetizing presentation. You can also serve the soup in a bread bowl for a fun and creative twist.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this chorizo soup with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the spicy and savory flavors of the dish. You can also enjoy this soup with a cold beer or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chorizo soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add additional broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chorizo soup contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. This soup is a satisfying and filling meal option that can be enjoyed as a main dish.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this chorizo soup mainly come from the dehydrated yellow cornmeal and any other added vegetables. Carbohydrates provide energy and fiber to help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Chorizo is a fatty sausage, so this soup is higher in fat content. However, you can reduce the fat content by skimming off any excess fat from the surface before serving. Fats provide essential nutrients and flavor to the soup.

Proteins

The main source of protein in this chorizo soup comes from the chorizo sausage. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This chorizo soup is rich in vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, spices, and broth used in the recipe. These nutrients help support various bodily functions and contribute to overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Chorizo sausage may contain allergens such as gluten, soy, and dairy, so be sure to check the ingredients list if you have any food allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, the cheese used in this recipe may contain dairy allergens.

Summary

Overall, chorizo soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy this soup as part of a well-rounded meal to nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.

Summary

Chorizo soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy a bowl of chorizo soup on a chilly day or serve it to friends and family for a memorable meal that will warm both hearts and bellies.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Chorizo Soup. It was a chilly autumn day, and I found myself browsing through a quaint little cookbook store in the heart of the city. As I perused the shelves, my eyes landed on a weathered, old cookbook with a faded cover that read "Traditional Spanish Recipes."

Intrigued, I flipped through the pages and came across a recipe for Chorizo Soup that immediately caught my eye. The ingredients were simple yet flavorful - chorizo sausage, potatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. I knew right then and there that I had to try making it.

I purchased the cookbook and hurried home to gather the ingredients. As I chopped the onions and potatoes, the sweet aroma of the chorizo filled my kitchen, transporting me to the bustling streets of Spain. I followed the recipe carefully, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that, tasting and adjusting until the flavors were just right.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The rich, smoky flavor of the chorizo paired perfectly with the tender potatoes and onions, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I continued to make Chorizo Soup, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. I shared it with friends and family, who always raved about its delicious flavor. I even entered it in a local cooking competition and won first prize, much to my delight.

But the best part of making Chorizo Soup was the memories it brought back. I remembered my grandmother, who had taught me the joy of cooking and passed down her own recipes to me. I could almost hear her voice as I stirred the pot, telling me to have patience and let the flavors meld together.

I also remembered the time I spent in Spain, exploring the markets and sampling the local cuisine. The sights, sounds, and smells of that vibrant country were forever etched in my mind, and making Chorizo Soup was a way for me to relive those memories.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am grateful for all the experiences and people who have influenced my love of cooking. From my grandmother to that old cookbook I stumbled upon, each one has played a part in shaping the cook I am today.

And so, as I ladle out steaming bowls of Chorizo Soup to my loved ones, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a soul nourished by the simple pleasure of good food shared with good company. For in the end, isn't that what cooking is all about? Bringing people together, creating memories, and savoring the flavors of life.