Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo Recipe

Introduction

Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender potatoes, smoky chorizo sausage, and rich seasonings to create a comforting and satisfying meal. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings or as a filling lunch. With its combination of savory chorizo, earthy potatoes, and aromatic spices, Spanish Potato Soup is a dish that is both easy to prepare and deeply flavorful.

The Spanish have a long history of making delicious, simple soups, and this recipe brings together the best of those traditions. The soup is made with a handful of basic ingredients but is packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a big pot for meal prep, this Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo will quickly become a favorite. In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for making this flavorful soup, along with tips and variations for customizing the recipe.

Why You’ll Love Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

• Rich and Flavorful: The smoky, spicy chorizo infuses the soup with a deep, savory flavor, while the potatoes provide a creamy texture that makes every spoonful satisfying.
• Hearty and Filling: This soup is not only full of flavor but also filling. The potatoes make the soup hearty and comforting, and the chorizo adds protein and richness.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can prepare this soup in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making a pot for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or to enjoy throughout the week, Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is a versatile dish that works for any occasion.
• Customizable: You can adjust the heat level by choosing mild or spicy chorizo and add your favorite vegetables or herbs to enhance the soup. This recipe is easy to modify to suit your taste preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-24g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 12-15g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo:

• 1 lb Spanish chorizo, sliced (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best)
• 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

While making Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo doesn’t require any specialized tools, the following pieces of equipment will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large pot or Dutch oven is ideal for this soup because it provides ample space for cooking and simmering all the ingredients.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. A good knife will make prep work quicker and more efficient.
3. Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the soup and helps prevent it from sticking to the pot while also being gentle on the surface.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements of spices and liquids are important for balancing the flavors in the soup.
5. Grater: If you choose to add cheese, a box grater or microplane is perfect for grating cheese or other garnishes.
6. Ladle: A ladle makes serving the soup easier, ensuring that you get the perfect portion in each bowl.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chorizo

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chorizo to the pot and cook it for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes browned and crispy. The chorizo will release its flavorful oils, which will infuse the soup with richness and a deep smoky flavor. Once the chorizo is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and garlic to the chorizo fat. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and the onion becomes translucent. This step allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors from the chorizo fat, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.

3. Add the Potatoes and Broth

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once the broth starts simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, add the smoked paprika, dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

4. Blend Some of the Soup (Optional)

For a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or by transferring some of the soup to a regular blender. Blend about 1-2 cups of the soup until smooth, and then return it to the pot. This step will give the soup a creamier base while still maintaining chunks of potato for texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step.

5. Return the Chorizo to the Soup

Once the potatoes are tender and the soup has reached your desired texture, return the cooked chorizo to the pot. Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the chorizo to warm through and the flavors to meld.

6. Add the Greens

If you’re adding greens, such as kale or spinach, stir them into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt down, adding color and nutrition to the soup. If you’re not using greens, you can skip this step.

7. Finish and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika to your preference. Once everything is well-seasoned and the soup is fully heated through, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for Perfect Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

• Use Quality Chorizo: The quality of the chorizo is key to the flavor of this soup. Try to find Spanish chorizo that’s made with real pork and high-quality spices. If you prefer a spicier soup, opt for spicy chorizo.
• Adjust the Heat Level: You can control the spiciness of the soup by using mild or spicy chorizo. If you prefer a milder flavor, go for a mild chorizo, and if you like more heat, use spicy chorizo or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Don’t Skip the Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika gives this soup its signature flavor and a smoky depth that really enhances the chorizo. It’s a key ingredient that shouldn’t be skipped.
• Customize the Vegetables: While potatoes, carrots, and onions are classic choices, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or parsnips for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld. You can make it ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
• Freezer-Friendly: Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations of Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

• Chorizo and Bean Soup: Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, for extra protein and heartiness. This will also make the soup even more filling.
• Spicy Chorizo and Chipotle: For an extra kick, use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Mince one or two peppers and stir them in with the garlic for a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the chorizo perfectly.
• Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, replace the chorizo with plant-based chorizo or mushrooms. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to fill the soup out.
• Sweet Potatoes: For a slightly sweeter version, try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the smoky chorizo.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking. This will create a velvety texture and add richness to the soup.

Storage and Shelf Life

Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is a great make-ahead meal and stores well for several days:

• Refrigerator: After cooling, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth to adjust the consistency if needed.
• Freezer: You can also freeze this soup for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

Pair this hearty soup with complementary sides to round out the meal:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread or baguette for dipping. A slice of rustic bread can help soak up the delicious broth and make the meal even more satisfying.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Try adding ingredients like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, garlicky bread is always a good choice with soup. Toasted or freshly baked garlic bread complements the smoky flavors of the chorizo and adds a nice crunch.
• Grilled Vegetables: A side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, would pair nicely with the soup and add freshness and texture.

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Conclusion

Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is a flavorful, hearty, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The smoky chorizo, tender potatoes, and rich broth come together to create a comforting and delicious dish that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly day or serve it as a family dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create this authentic Spanish dish in less than an hour. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors that make this soup truly special.