As I stood by the stove, the aroma of smoky chorizo wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy tapas bar in Spain. This Hearty Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo embraces every bit of that essence, blending creamy potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned meat into a comforting bowl of goodness. One of the best parts? You can whip it up in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal quick meal for those chilly evenings when takeout simply won’t do. Plus, it has a gluten-free option, ensuring everyone at the table can dig in without worry. Ready to savor the flavors of Spain from the comfort of your home? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting flavors come together in this warming soup, offering a rich blend of smoky chorizo and creamy potatoes. Quick and easy to make in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights. Gluten-free options let everyone enjoy this hearty meal without complications. Crowd-pleasing appeal makes it a go-to for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. For a delightful pairing, enjoy with some warm crusty bread or try it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Spanish Potato Soup Ingredients
• Create a heartwarming dish with this essential list!
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Used for cooking chorizo and aromatics; substitute with canola or vegetable oil if necessary.
- Spanish Chorizo – Provides a rich smoky flavor; opt for spicy or mild according to your preference, or use smoked tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; finely chopped for even cooking.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the soup with robust flavor; adjust quantity to taste.
- Green Bell Pepper – Adds freshness and crunch; can substitute with red bell pepper for a sweeter taste.
- Carrot – Provides sweetness; add more or substitute with celery for a different flavor profile.
- Waxy Potatoes – Holds their shape well in the soup; perfect for texture and creaminess.
For Seasoning
- Ground Cumin – Adds earthy warmth; can be substituted with ground coriander for a different flavor.
- Dried Oregano – Enhances overall seasoning; Italian seasoning can work in a pinch.
- Sweet Paprika – Adds color and mild flavor; smoked paprika intensifies the taste.
- Cayenne Pepper – Offers heat; adjust to taste or omit for a milder experience.
For Thickening
- Double Concentrated Tomato Paste – Boosts umami flavor; regular tomato paste can be used if needed.
- Flour – Acts as a thickener; for a gluten-free option, swap with cornstarch.
For the Broth
- Chicken Broth – Adds richness; vegetable broth serves well for a vegetarian alternative.
For a Creamy Finish
- Heavy Cream – Contributes to a velvety texture; can be omitted for a lighter soup.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – Fresh herbs brighten the flavors; cilantro can be a tasty substitute or simply leave it off.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create an inviting bowl of Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo that will warm your heart and your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Spanish Potato Soup with Smoky Chorizo
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by preparing your ingredients for the Hearty Spanish Potato Soup with Smoky Chorizo. Peel and cut the waxy potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’ll cook evenly. Next, finely chop the yellow onion, green bell pepper, and carrot, and mince the garlic. Finally, set your chopped parsley aside for garnish, as fresh herbs will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
Step 2: Cook Chorizo
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced Spanish chorizo to the pot. Cook the chorizo for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it browns nicely and releases its smoky essence into the oil, infusing the base of your soup with wonderful flavor.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
With the chorizo nicely browned, add the chopped green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 2 minutes until it softens, then incorporate the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, creating a flavorful aromatic foundation for your soup.
Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables and Spices
Stir in the chopped carrot along with salt, black pepper, ground cumin, dried oregano, sweet paprika, and cayenne pepper for heat. Cook these ingredients together for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly and enhance the overall flavor profile of your Hearty Spanish Potato Soup with Smoky Chorizo.
Step 5: Add Tomato Paste & Flour
Next, add 2 tablespoons of double concentrated tomato paste to the pot, followed by 2 tablespoons of flour. Mix thoroughly, ensuring that the flour is fully incorporated and the ingredients are well combined, creating a thicker base for your soup that will contribute to its final creamy texture.
Step 6: Combine Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced waxy potatoes to the pot, followed by 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together, then increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 7: Finish the Soup
After the potatoes have cooked through, add ½ cup of heavy cream and the chopped parsley to the pot. Stir gently to combine and simmer for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then prepare to serve your comforting Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo alongside some crusty bread.
Expert Tips for Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo
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Layer Flavors: Cook each ingredient in order to maximize the depth of flavor in your Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo. This allows the smokiness of the chorizo to meld perfectly with the spices.
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Potato Choice: Use waxy potatoes for the best texture; they hold their shape well. Avoid starchy varieties which may break down and become mushy in the soup.
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Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the simmering time; overcooking potatoes can lead to a soupy mush. Aim for about 15 minutes until tender yet firm.
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Creamy Consistency: If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
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Adjust the Heat: Customize the spice level by adjusting the cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder version, start with less and add gradually according to taste.
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Storage Know-How: To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it creamy.
What to Serve with Hearty Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo
Prepare for a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth, paired with delightful side offerings that enhance every bite.
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Crusty Bread: The ultimate pairing, perfect for soaking up the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, elevating the meal’s freshness.
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Savory Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheese and a selection of olives, providing a delightful contrast to the hearty, smoky flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies bring a sweet depth, complementing the robust nature of the Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo.
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Spanish Red Wine: A medium-bodied red, like Tempranillo, enhances the smoky notes of the chorizo, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
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Fluffy Rice: Offering a mild backdrop, fluffy rice soaks up the flavors beautifully, making every bite rich and comforting.
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy grilled shrimp add a delicious twist, bringing seafood’s freshness to the hearty, rich soup.
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Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Finish off the meal with a delectable dessert that provides a sweet contrast to the soup’s savory warmth.
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Gazpacho: This chilled Spanish soup offers a refreshing palate cleanser between warm bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo
Fridge: Store the Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep; make it in advance and simply heat it when you’re ready to serve!
Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this soup to your taste preferences with these delightful ideas!
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Vegetable Boost: Add chopped zucchini, fresh spinach, or even white beans to enhance the nutrition and flavor profile. These additions bring a vibrant pop of color and texture, making each spoonful even more satisfying.
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Spicy Twist: For heat lovers, crank up the cayenne or toss in diced jalapeños for an extra kick. This will awaken your taste buds and transform the soup into something exhilarating and bold.
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Creaminess Variation: Skip the heavy cream for a lighter version, or substitute it with coconut milk for a unique flavor twist that adds an exotic touch. The creamy consistency remains intact, perfect for those who like to mix things up!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme instead of parsley for a different aromatic experience. Just imagine the enticing aromas wafting through your kitchen as the soup simmers away!
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Texture Change: Swap the waxy potatoes for sweet potatoes for a subtly sweet and nutrient-packed version of the soup. This twist not only adds depth to the flavor but also introduces additional sweetness that beautifully complements the spices.
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Smoky Vegan Delight: For a plant-based version, replace chorizo with smoked tofu or tempeh and utilize vegetable broth. This maintains that smoky essence while ensuring everyone can relish this comforting dish.
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Protein Packed: Want to add more protein? Mixing in cooked lentils or shredded rotisserie chicken makes the soup even more hearty and filling—a great option for a luxurious meal!
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Italian Fusion: Incorporate Italian sausage instead of chorizo or mix in flavors with sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs for a deliciously bold twist. This combination can take your taste buds on a journey that blends the best of both worlds.
Pair this comforting soup with delightful sides like crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience! You might also enjoy this hearty option with Crockpot Garlic Potatoes to complement your soup beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These flavorful Hearty Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the vegetables—like the potatoes, bell pepper, onion, and carrot—up to 24 hours in advance to streamline your meal prep. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The chorizo can also be cooked ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just combine the prepped ingredients, add the broth, and simmer as directed. You’ll have a comforting, hearty meal on the table with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch!
Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chorizo for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting chorizo, look for Spanish chorizo, which is cured and packed with rich smoky flavors. You can choose between spicy or mild varieties based on your heat preference. If you’re leaning towards a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tofu, which can mimic that wonderful depth of flavor without the meat.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Spanish Potato Soup?
To store your delicious Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, make sure it cools completely before sealing. Enjoy it as a ready-to-eat meal during the week!
Can I freeze this soup?
Very! You can freeze the Spanish Potato Soup by pouring it into single-serving airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
If you find your soup is too thick after cooking, no need to worry! Gradually stir in more chicken broth or water until you achieve your desired consistency. It’s best to add a little at a time to avoid making it too watery. Adjusting the creaminess is a simple way to rescue your comforting meal!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! To make your Spanish Potato Soup gluten-free, substitute the flour with cornstarch. Just mix the cornstarch with a little cold water before adding it to the soup to prevent clumping. Also, ensure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free for a safe and delicious meal for everyone.
Can I share this soup with my pets?
While the ingredients in this soup are wholesome for humans, it’s important to mention that ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep this comforting Spanish Potato Soup exclusively for human enjoyment!
Comforting Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo for Cozy Evenings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep your ingredients by peeling and cutting the waxy potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the yellow onion, green bell pepper, and carrot, and mince the garlic. Set chopped parsley aside for garnish.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced Spanish chorizo and cook for about 3 minutes until browned.
- Add the chopped green bell pepper and sauté for 2 minutes, then add chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking for 2 minutes.
- Stir in chopped carrot, salt, black pepper, ground cumin, dried oregano, sweet paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add double concentrated tomato paste and flour. Mix thoroughly to create a thicker base for the soup.
- Add diced waxy potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and chopped parsley. Simmer for an additional 3 minutes, taste and adjust seasoning, then serve.
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