What Is Chorizo? A Simple Guide to This Spicy Sausage
By Lisa Bot | Published 4 November 2024
What Is Chorizo?
Chorizo is a type of pork sausage that’s used in both Spanish and Mexican cooking. It’s made from chopped or minced pork and is seasoned with paprika and other spices like garlic and chilli.
There are two main types of chorizo: Spanish and Mexican. Both types have a rich, savoury taste, but they’re made and used differently in cooking.
Different Types of Chorizo
There are several types of chorizo, but the most common ones are Spanish and Mexican chorizo.
Spanish chorizo is usually cured or semi-cured. It can be eaten without cooking, much like salami or ham, and is often used in tapas or sliced for sandwiches.
Spanish chorizo gets its red colour and smoky flavour from smoked paprika (pimentón).
Mexican chorizo is typically fresh and raw, meaning it needs to be cooked before eating. Instead of paprika, it’s spiced with chilli peppers and has a stronger, spicier flavour.
Mexican chorizo can come in sausage casings or loose like minced meat, which makes it great for adding to tacos, burritos, or scrambled eggs.
How Is Chorizo Made?
Chorizo is made by combining pork with spices like paprika, garlic, and sometimes wine. The ingredients are mixed together and then stuffed into casings, which are usually made from natural pork intestine or synthetic materials.
For Spanish chorizo, the sausage is often fermented and cured. This drying process gives the sausage a firm texture and makes it safe to eat without cooking.
Mexican chorizo, on the other hand, is not cured and needs to be cooked before it can be eaten.
How To Use Chorizo in Cooking
Chorizo is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes.
Spanish chorizo, being cured, is often sliced and served on its own as part of a charcuterie board or tapas plate. It’s also used in classic Spanish dishes like paella or served alongside bread and cheese.
Mexican chorizo, being raw, is usually cooked before adding to dishes. It’s commonly used in tacos, burritos, or breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs with chorizo. Because it breaks down into a mince-like texture when cooked, it mixes well with rice, beans, and vegetables.
Popular Dishes with Chorizo
Chorizo can be used in many different recipes. Here are some popular ways to enjoy it:
- Paella: This traditional Spanish dish often includes slices of Spanish chorizo for added depth and smokiness.
- Chorizo and Eggs: A common breakfast dish in Mexico, Mexican chorizo is cooked and mixed with scrambled eggs for a flavourful, hearty meal.
- Chorizo Tacos: Fresh Mexican chorizo is cooked and served with tortillas, onions, and salsa to make a simple but delicious taco.
- Chorizo in Red Wine: In Spain, chorizo is sometimes simmered in red wine, which gives it a rich and savoury taste.
- Chorizo Pasta: Chorizo can be sliced or crumbled and added to pasta dishes for an extra kick of flavour.
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Is Chorizo Healthy?
Chorizo is high in protein, but it’s also high in fat and salt. While it adds a lot of flavour to dishes, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Some types of chorizo, especially the cured varieties, can be quite salty due to the curing process. There are also lower-fat versions of chorizo available, including chicken and turkey chorizo, which may be healthier options if you’re watching your fat intake.
For those who prefer plant-based diets, there are also vegetarian or vegan chorizo alternatives made from tofu or other plant proteins.
How To Cook Chorizo
The way you cook chorizo depends on the type you’re using.
Spanish chorizo doesn’t need to be cooked and is often eaten raw or lightly fried. It can be added to salads, pasta, or eaten on its own with cheese and bread.
Mexican chorizo, on the other hand, must be cooked thoroughly before eating. It’s often removed from its casing and crumbled into a pan to be fried. The oils released during cooking add extra flavour to the dish, so there’s usually no need to add extra oil.
Where To Buy Chorizo
You can find chorizo at most supermarkets, delis, or specialty stores.
Spanish chorizo is usually found with other cured meats like salami, while Mexican chorizo is often in the fresh sausage section. You can also buy it online from gourmet food stores if you’re after a specific type.
How To Store Chorizo
Chorizo should be stored in the fridge, whether it’s fresh or cured. Fresh Mexican chorizo should be cooked within a few days of buying, or you can freeze it to use later. Cured Spanish chorizo lasts longer in the fridge and can be kept for a few weeks, but once it’s opened, it’s best to eat within a week.
For both types, make sure to keep them sealed or wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat chorizo raw?
You can eat Spanish chorizo raw if it’s been cured, but Mexican chorizo must be cooked before eating.
What can I use instead of chorizo?
If you can’t find chorizo, you can use other sausages like salami or even spicy Italian sausage as a substitute. For a plant-based option, try using a vegetarian sausage or tofu chorizo.
Is chorizo spicy?
Both Spanish and Mexican chorizo can be spicy, but it depends on the recipe. Spanish chorizo can range from mild to hot, depending on the type of paprika used. Mexican chorizo tends to be spicier due to the use of chillies.
Final Thoughts
Chorizo is a versatile and flavour-packed sausage that can be used in many dishes, from breakfast to dinner.
Whether you’re using Spanish or Mexican chorizo, you’ll find it adds a unique, rich taste to your cooking. With different types and ways to use it, chorizo is a great addition to your kitchen.
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