This Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is a bowl of ultimate comfort. With smoky chorizo infusing every bite, tender potatoes, and a creamy texture, it’s a dish that warms the soul and delights the palate. The layering of flavors starting with caramelized chorizo and a medley of fresh vegetables creates a depth that is both hearty and inviting. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also ideal for sharing with family or friends. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every drop, and you’ll have a meal that feels like a warm embrace. Adjust the spices to your liking and let this recipe transport you to the heart of Spain
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 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
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp double-concentrated tomato paste
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1.7 pounds waxy potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Directions:
- Prepare all ingredients by peeling and chopping the vegetables, slicing the chorizo, and mincing the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chorizo slices and cook for 3 minutes until browned.
- Add bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in onion and garlic, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add carrot, followed by the oregano, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring.
- Mix in the tomato paste and stir until well combined. Add flour and stir thoroughly to thicken.
- Incorporate the potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and parsley, cooking for an additional 3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 567 kcal | Servings: 6
A Heartwarming Classic
When it comes to comforting dishes that evoke warmth and rich flavors, Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo stands out as a star. This dish is a beautiful representation of the hearty, robust flavors of Spanish cuisine. Combining creamy potatoes, smoky chorizo, aromatic spices, and a touch of creaminess, this soup transcends a simple meal it becomes an experience.
The Origin of Flavors
Spanish cuisine is renowned for its bold use of spices, meats, and seasonal produce. This soup draws inspiration from the rustic cooking traditions of Spain, where simple, locally-sourced ingredients are transformed into culinary masterpieces. Chorizo, a quintessential Spanish sausage, lends its smoky and slightly spicy profile to the dish, perfectly complementing the creaminess of the potatoes.
The practice of layering flavors, a hallmark of Spanish cooking, is what sets this soup apart. The technique involves cooking ingredients in stages to release their full potential. Starting with the chorizo, which is cooked to release its paprika-infused oils, the base of this soup is both rich and aromatic. Vegetables such as onions, carrots, and bell peppers follow, bringing sweetness and depth. The addition of cumin, oregano, and paprika ties these elements together with a warm and earthy finish.
Why This Soup Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a meal for your family, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this soup fits the bill. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and most importantly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The rich flavors appeal to adults, while the creamy texture ensures kids will enjoy it too.
Another reason this recipe is so beloved is its adaptability. While the classic version includes chorizo, you can make adjustments to suit dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, the chorizo can be replaced with smoked paprika for that signature smoky flavor. Additions like white beans, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the soup’s nutritional value, making it as healthy as it is delicious.
Nutritional Benefits
This soup offers more than just great taste it’s packed with nutrients. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing energy and essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C. Carrots and bell peppers add a dose of fiber and antioxidants, while the heavy cream adds richness and some calcium.
The real star, chorizo, is more than just flavorful it’s also high in protein, which makes this soup a filling and satisfying option. However, because chorizo can be salty, balance the dish with low-sodium chicken broth or use a homemade version to control the salt content.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy this soup, serve it with a side of crusty bread. The bread not only complements the soup’s creamy consistency but also serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a complete Spanish-inspired meal, pair the soup with a light side salad featuring arugula, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
If you’re hosting guests, consider offering a few Spanish tapas as starters. A simple platter of manchego cheese, marinated olives, and roasted almonds will set the tone for a warm, inviting meal.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
One of the best things about this Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is its suitability for meal prep. The flavors deepen when the soup is allowed to sit, making it an excellent make-ahead dish. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple—just warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the creamy texture remains intact.
For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and add a splash of water or broth if needed to restore its original consistency.
The Art of Customization
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. If you enjoy a spicier dish, use spicy chorizo or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup. Prefer a milder taste? Opt for mild chorizo and cut back on the paprika.
For a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative or leave it out entirely. Adding a handful of fresh parsley at the end not only brightens the dish but also adds a fresh herbal note, balancing the rich, smoky flavors.
If you’re hosting vegetarians, the soup can still shine without the chorizo. Swap it with smoked tofu, roasted vegetables, or even chickpeas for added texture and protein. These small changes allow the dish to cater to a variety of dietary needs while preserving its essence.
A Celebration of Spanish Cuisine
Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo encapsulates the essence of Spanish cuisine—simple, bold, and deeply satisfying. Each spoonful tells a story of tradition and innovation, blending familiar ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and new.
This soup is also an excellent entry point for those looking to explore Spanish cooking. It introduces the vibrant spices and smoky flavors that are hallmarks of the cuisine, inviting cooks and diners alike to embrace the warmth and richness of Spain.
Conclusion:
In the world of comfort foods, Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo holds a special place. Its rich, creamy texture, bold flavors, and versatility make it a dish worth adding to your repertoire. Whether you’re savoring it on a cold winter evening or sharing it with loved ones, this soup is more than just a meal it’s an experience.
With its make-ahead convenience, adaptable nature, and delightful balance of textures and flavors, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with bread, a salad, or tapas for a complete dining experience that celebrates the heart of Spanish cuisine.