Portuguese Soup I

Portuguese Soup I Recipe - A Hearty and Savory Dish for Lunch or Dinner

Region / culture: Portugal | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Portuguese Soup I is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with protein, vegetables, and beans, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The combination of sausage, kidney beans, cabbage, and potatoes creates a delicious and comforting soup that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Portuguese Soup I is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed in Portugal for generations. This soup is often made with ingredients that are readily available in the region, such as sausage, cabbage, and potatoes. The addition of balsamic vinegar and catsup gives this soup a unique and tangy flavor that sets it apart from other soups. Portuguese Soup I is a popular dish in Portuguese cuisine and is often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

2 onions, chopped
6 garlic cloves, chopped
6 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (454 g) beef sausage, chunked
10 cups beef stock
16 oz (454 g) kidney beans, with liquid
1 cabbage, cored & chopped
12 new potatoes, quartered
0.25 cup balsamic vinegar
16 oz (454 g) catsup
salt to taste
pepper to taste

How to prepare

Pour oil into a large stock or stew pot and sauté onions and garlic in it until they become soft and transparent.
Add sausage chunks and lightly brown them. Then, add beef stock and all other ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring often to prevent the bottom of the pan from burning.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 35–45 minutes or longer, stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasonings according to taste.

Variations

Substitute the sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

Notes

The recipe SAYS that it yields one gallon, but it's really much more. The hardest part of this recipe is the chopping. You should cut up everything ahead of time (potatoes, sausage, cabbage, onions, garlic), so you can just dump it all into the pot when you're ready.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and transparent before adding the sausage. This will help to develop the flavors in the soup.

- Stir the soup often while it is simmering to prevent the bottom of the pan from burning.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste before serving. You may need to add more salt and pepper depending on your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Portuguese Soup I with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions and garlic before adding the sausage to develop the flavors in the soup.

- Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of sausage or protein of your choice in place of the sausage.

- Substitute the kidney beans with cannellini beans or chickpeas.

Make Ahead Tips

Portuguese Soup I can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Portuguese Soup I in individual bowls garnished with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. - Serve the soup in a bread bowl for a fun and creative presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Portuguese Soup I with a glass of red wine or a light beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Portuguese Soup I in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 5g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 50% DV

- Calcium: 8% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains: Soy

Summary

Portuguese Soup I is a well-balanced meal that is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is a great option for those looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Summary

Portuguese Soup I is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with protein, vegetables, and beans, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. With its unique flavor and hearty ingredients, Portuguese Soup I is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Portuguese Soup I. It was a cold winter day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and faded newspaper clippings, my eyes landed on a worn piece of paper with the words "Portuguese Soup I" scrawled across the top.

I had never heard of Portuguese soup before, but the ingredients listed intrigued me. Chorizo, kale, potatoes, and white beans - it sounded like a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. I knew I had to give it a try.

I carefully read through the instructions, taking note of the detailed steps and measurements. It seemed like a fairly straightforward recipe, but there were a few techniques and ingredients that were unfamiliar to me. I decided to reach out to my friend Maria, who was of Portuguese descent and an excellent cook in her own right, for some guidance.

Maria was delighted to share her knowledge with me and offered to come over to my house to help me make the soup. As we chopped onions, sliced chorizo, and simmered the broth, she shared stories of her own family's recipes and traditions. I listened intently, soaking up every bit of wisdom she had to offer.

As the soup bubbled away on the stove, filling my kitchen with the rich aroma of spices and sausage, Maria taught me the importance of patience and attention to detail in cooking. She showed me how to taste and adjust seasonings, how to simmer soup slowly to develop layers of flavor, and how to stir with love and care.

When the soup was finally ready, we ladled it into bowls and sat down at the table to enjoy our creation. The first spoonful was a revelation - the smoky chorizo, earthy kale, and creamy white beans melded together in a harmonious symphony of flavors. I couldn't believe that I had made something so delicious and satisfying.

From that day on, Portuguese Soup I became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and cozy nights in with a good book. Each time I prepared it, I thought of Maria and the invaluable lessons she had shared with me.

Over the years, I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different types of sausage, adding a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth, or swapping out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a healthier twist. But no matter how I tweak it, the essence of that first batch of Portuguese Soup I remains - a reminder of the power of curiosity, friendship, and tradition in the kitchen.

As I look back on that fateful day when I discovered the recipe for Portuguese Soup I, I am grateful for the journey it set me on. It opened my eyes to a world of new flavors and techniques, and introduced me to a dear friend who has since become a cherished part of my culinary journey. And for that, I will always be thankful.