Caldo Verde is one of Portugal’s most cherished soups, known for its simple yet flavorful ingredients. This traditional kale soup is a staple in Portuguese cuisine and often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations. With its hearty texture and rich taste, Caldo Verde is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 pound kale, finely shredded
- 1 chorizo sausage, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and translucent.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Return the soup to the pot.
- Add Kale and Chorizo: Stir in the shredded kale and sliced chorizo. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the kale is tender and the chorizo is cooked through.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving.
What is Chorizo?
Chorizo is a type of sausage that is commonly used in Portuguese and Spanish cuisine. It is made from pork and seasoned with a variety of spices, most notably paprika, which gives it its distinctive red color and smoky flavor. There are two main types of chorizo: fresh (which needs to be cooked) and cured (which can be eaten without cooking). For this recipe, we recommend using cured chorizo, as it adds a rich and smoky depth of flavor to the soup. The chorizo slices not only infuse the broth with their delicious spices but also provide a satisfying texture contrast to the tender potatoes and kale.
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Final Thoughts
Caldo Verde is a classic Portuguese soup that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a must-try recipe for anyone interested in Portuguese cuisine. Enhance your cooking journey with our recommended digital products and bring the authentic taste of Portugal to your home!
