This rustic Spanish chorizo and creamy potato chowder is a perfect harmony of smoky, spicy sausage and tender, velvety potatoes. The soup’s rich texture and vibrant color invite you to indulge in every spoonful, making it a quintessential comfort food that’s both satisfying and soul-warming. Ideal for chilly days or casual family dinners, this soup is easy to prepare yet feels special enough to serve guests. The fresh parsley garnish adds a bright contrast, balancing the richness of the dish and elevating its presentation. A simple, hearty dish that never goes out of style.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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200g chorizo, sliced or diced
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook until it releases its oils and starts to crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove chorizo with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the oil in the pot.
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Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and smoked paprika and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the cubed potatoes and stir to coat them in the spices and oil. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Using a potato masher or immersion blender, partially mash the potatoes to thicken the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
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Stir in the cream and cooked chorizo, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through but do not boil.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Background and Origins of Chorizo and Potato Soup
Chorizo and potato soup is a hearty dish that draws its roots from traditional Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, where chorizo — a smoked, spiced pork sausage — has long been a staple ingredient. In Spain, chorizo is often enjoyed on its own, sliced thin, or used to add depth and smokiness to stews, soups, and rice dishes. Combining chorizo with potatoes is a natural pairing: potatoes provide a creamy, mellow backdrop that balances the intense flavors of the sausage, making the dish both comforting and filling.
Historically, rustic soups like this were born from peasant cooking — simple ingredients readily available to common folk, cooked together to create nourishing meals that could feed entire families. The use of chorizo added a punch of protein and spice, while potatoes gave volume and texture, making this soup a one-pot wonder that warms both body and soul.
This recipe has evolved over time but remains a classic representation of Spanish home cooking, loved not only in Spain but worldwide by anyone craving a flavorful, satisfying bowl of soup.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This particular chorizo and potato soup recipe is special because it perfectly balances bold, smoky flavors with creamy, smooth textures. The use of smoked paprika enhances the chorizo’s natural spiciness without overpowering the dish. Unlike some heavier chowders, this recipe keeps the creaminess moderate by blending and mashing the potatoes, offering a velvety texture with enough chunky bits for an inviting mouthfeel.
The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward method make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Despite its ease, the results are impressive — a rich, flavorful soup that feels like it took hours to prepare. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe; you can swap out ingredients based on preference or dietary needs, such as using vegetable broth for a lighter version or opting for a plant-based sausage substitute.
Nutritional Benefits and Comfort Food Appeal
This chorizo and potato soup offers more than just taste; it’s a balanced meal in a bowl. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, which support energy levels and digestion. Chorizo, while rich, is a good source of protein and fat, which help keep you satiated for longer periods. When paired with broth and fresh herbs, the dish becomes a comforting yet nutritious option, ideal for colder seasons when you need something hearty but wholesome.
Additionally, the inclusion of garlic and onion adds antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. If made with chicken or vegetable broth, the soup remains relatively low in calories while delivering a satisfying dose of flavor and nutrients.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best things about this chorizo and potato soup is how adaptable it is. You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or kale to increase the vitamin and fiber content. For those who enjoy a little heat, extra chili flakes or hot sauce can be stirred in. On the other hand, a milder version can be created by using sweet paprika instead of smoked.
For a creamier texture, stirring in sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end can add a lovely tang and richness. To make the soup gluten-free, simply ensure the broth and any additional ingredients don’t contain gluten. It also reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Why This Soup Is Perfect for Families and Entertaining
This soup is not only delicious but also practical, making it ideal for busy families or for serving guests. It can be made in advance and simply reheated, which means less last-minute kitchen stress. It’s also easy to scale up or down depending on the number of servings needed.
Its warming and filling nature makes it a favorite for communal meals during fall and winter. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh green salad, and it becomes a complete meal that satisfies both adults and kids. The smoky flavor of chorizo tends to appeal even to picky eaters, especially when paired with the comforting texture of potatoes.
Cooking Tips and Tricks for Best Results
To get the most flavor out of this recipe, choose a good-quality smoked chorizo. Authentic Spanish chorizo, if available, will give you that perfect balance of smokiness and spice. When sautéing the chorizo first, make sure to let it release its oils into the pot—this becomes the flavor base for the whole soup.
Partially mashing the potatoes is key to achieving the right consistency. You want it creamy but with some potato chunks left to give the soup texture. Be careful not to boil the cream after adding it, as this can cause curdling.
Fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish and adds a lovely herbal note, cutting through the richness. For added depth, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can lift the flavors and provide a subtle acidity that balances the soup perfectly.
Cultural Significance and Comfort Food Status
In many Spanish households, chorizo and potato dishes represent comfort and tradition. Sharing a big pot of soup like this is symbolic of togetherness, warmth, and home. It’s a dish that brings people around the table, whether for a weekday family meal or a weekend gathering with friends.
The rustic, hearty nature of the soup makes it a beloved comfort food, especially during colder months or after a long day. Its roots in traditional, simple cooking remind us of the power of food to nourish both the body and the soul.
Conclusion
Chorizo and potato soup is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that ties history, nutrition, and comfort into one satisfying bowl. Its ease of preparation, bold flavors, and versatility make it a staple recipe that deserves a place in every home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re seeking a quick weekday dinner or a warming dish to share with loved ones, this soup delivers on all fronts. By embracing simple ingredients and classic techniques, this recipe invites you to enjoy the rich flavors of Spanish cuisine in a comforting and approachable way. It’s perfect for food lovers who appreciate authenticity, heartiness, and the kind of food that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
