This chorizo and potato soup is a warm hug in a bowl! The spicy chorizo mixed with tender potatoes creates a hearty dish perfect for chilly days.
I love how this soup warms you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer. So cozy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chorizo: This spicy sausage adds a special kick. If you can’t find it, you could use Italian sausage or smoked sausage. For a milder flavor, consider turkey sausage but adjust seasoning since it’s less spicy.
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their creaminess. If you want a low-carb option, cauliflower can work as a substitute, just adjust the cooking time since it cooks faster.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build the base of flavor in the soup. Shallots could substitute for onion, and garlic powder can replace fresh garlic if needed. I prefer fresh for the best taste!
Broth: Chicken broth is the traditional option, but vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth usually packs more flavor than store-bought.
How Do You Ensure the Potatoes are Perfectly Tender?
Getting those potatoes just right is key in this soup. Start by cutting them into evenly sized chunks, so they cook at the same speed. You can add them after the broth since it helps the soup cook evenly.
- Cook the soup at a gentle simmer once you add the broth. This prevents the potatoes from getting mushy.
- Test for doneness by poking a potato with a fork; it should go in easily without falling apart.
- If you want a thicker soup, you can mash a few potato pieces with the back of a spoon and stir them in.
Chorizo and Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 200g chorizo sausage, sliced
- 200g chorizo (spicy ground), crumbled
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready in about 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chorizo:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo sausage and cook it until it begins to brown and release its tasty oils, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Ground Chorizo:
Next, add the crumbled ground chorizo to the pot. Cook it for another 3-4 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This will add depth to your soup’s flavor!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Keep cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which will take around 5 minutes. This is when your kitchen starts to smell amazing!
4. Spice It Up:
If you’re using smoked paprika, sprinkle it in now and stir well to combine. It adds a lovely, smoky flavor to your soup.
5. Incorporate the Potatoes:
Add the potato chunks to the pot and stir them with the chorizo and onion mixture, mixing everything together nicely.
6. Add the Broth:
Pour in the broth and bring the mix to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which will be around 20-25 minutes.
7. Season to Taste:
When the potatoes are nice and soft, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir!
8. Final Fresh Touch:
Just before you’re ready to serve, toss in the chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls, serve hot, and consider pairing it with a slice of crusty bread for a comforting meal. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful chorizo and potato soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Soup?
Absolutely! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for their creaminess, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes if you prefer a bit of sweetness in your soup. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed!
What Can I Substitute for Chorizo?
If chorizo isn’t available, Italian sausage or smoked sausage can be good alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try using a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor profile.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just be mindful that potatoes may soften a bit more after reheating, so don’t overcook initially!
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, simply mash some of the potato chunks against the side of the pot about halfway through cooking, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water at the end of cooking to reach your desired thickness.
