Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

Enjoy this warm, hearty dish of Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo that combines creamy potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and smoky chorizo. Perfect for cozy family dinners or as a comforting meal on chilly nights, this soup offers a delightful blend of flavors that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This Spanish potato soup is rich and filling, making it ideal for a satisfying dinner.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use either spicy or mild chorizo to suit your taste preferences. The recipe is flexible enough for substitutions.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, making it perfect for family meals.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge and can be frozen, making it a great option for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without splattering.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient ingredient preparation.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 9 ounces Spanish chorizo (spicy or mild, sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (deseeded and chopped)
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 carrot (peeled and chopped)

Seasonings

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

For Thickening

• 2 tbsp double concentrated tomato paste
• 2 tbsp flour

Main Ingredients

• 1.7 pounds waxy potatoes (peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 6 cups chicken broth

Finishing Touches

• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

How to Make Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are ready.
1. Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Deseed, cut into strips, and chop the bell pepper.
3. Peel and chop the carrot.
4. Finely chop the onion.
5. Mince the garlic cloves and chop the parsley.
6. Remove the casing from the chorizo if needed, cut lengthwise in half, and slice.

Step 2: Cook Chorizo and Vegetables

Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large pot.
1. Add chorizo and cook for about 3 minutes until it starts to brown.
2. Add bell pepper; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Then add onion and garlic; cook for another 2 minutes more.
4. Stir in carrot along with salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add tomato paste to the pot; stir until combined.
1. Gradually add flour while stirring until fully incorporated.
2. Add potatoes to the mixture and pour in broth.
3. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Final Touches

When ready:
1. Add cream and parsley; cook for another 3 minutes.
2. Taste your soup; adjust salt if necessary.
3. Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side—enjoy!

How to Serve Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. Pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance this comforting soup.

Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. It adds a satisfying crunch and complements the flavors beautifully.

Fresh Salad

• A light, fresh salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.

Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated cheese, like Manchego or cheddar, on top of your soup before serving. It melts slightly and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices can bring a dose of healthy fats to your meal. They add a delightful creaminess that pairs well with the spices in the soup.

Pickled Jalapeños

• For those who enjoy heat, adding pickled jalapeños can give your soup an exciting kick. Their tanginess also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the soup just before serving brightens up the dish. It adds a zesty freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the smoky chorizo.

How to Perfect Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

To ensure your Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality chorizo: The flavor of your soup largely depends on the chorizo you choose. Opt for high-quality Spanish chorizo for authentic taste.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasoning as needed. Each ingredient can vary in strength, so trust your palate.

• Simmer gently: Allow your soup to simmer gently once you add the broth and potatoes. This helps develop richer flavors without overcooking the ingredients.

• Blend for creaminess: For an even creamier texture, consider blending part of the soup after cooking and then mixing it back in.

• Garnish thoughtfully: Fresh herbs or toppings like parsley or cilantro not only add color but also freshen each bite, enhancing flavor complexity.

• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

Pairing side dishes with your Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is ideal for soaking up every drop of delicious broth while adding bold flavors.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables offers a nutritious side that complements the savory notes of the soup.

3. Cheese Quesadillas: Quick and easy quesadillas provide an extra cheesy element that pairs wonderfully with the potato soup.

4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances out the spice from chorizo and adds a comforting touch to any bowl of soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make for a hearty side dish that echoes Spanish flavors.

6. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with butter and chives as a simple yet satisfying side that echoes potato goodness.

7. Chips and Salsa: A bowl of tortilla chips served alongside fresh salsa offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy potato soup.

8. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad provides refreshing crunch and acidity, making it an excellent counterpoint to rich soup flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong type of potatoes: Waxy potatoes work best for this soup as they hold their shape. Avoid starchy potatoes that may break down too much.
• Not browning the chorizo: Browning enhances the flavor of the chorizo. Skipping this step can result in a less flavorful soup.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them to maintain a nice texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste and adjust seasonings, especially salt, before serving. This ensures your soup is flavorful and balanced.
• Skipping the cream at the end: The cream adds richness and smoothness. Don’t forget it for that creamy finish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for best flavor.

Reheating Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo.

Can I customize my Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo?

Yes! Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or kale for more nutrition. You can also try different types of chorizo based on your spice preference.

Is this Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo healthy?

This soup is quite hearty and can be made healthier by using low-fat cream or omitting it altogether. It’s still delicious without sacrificing flavor!

Can I freeze Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just ensure it’s cooled before freezing.

What are good sides to serve with Spanish Potato Soup?

Crusty bread is perfect for dipping. You could also serve a simple salad or some cheese on the side.

Final Thoughts

Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness!