What is Chorizo? 10 Things You Need to Know About The Spicy Sausage
Here's your guide to navigating the types of chorizo, learning how to cook with it, and enjoying spicy and delicious sausage.
Kristi Kellogg & Kerry Acker
What is chorizo? It's sausage. And it's delicious. Just about everyone loves chorizo (right?), but navigating the different types of chorizo, and figuring out how and when to use which types of chorizo, is a whole 'nother story. Here, ten things to know about chorizo.
1. It's Made of Pork
Chorizo is a highly seasoned chopped or ground pork sausage used in Spanish and Mexican cuisine. Mexican chorizo is made with fresh (raw, uncooked) pork, while the Spanish version is usually smoked.
2. It's Spicy
Mexican chorizo is typically seasoned with vinegar and chile peppers, while Spanish chorizo is made with garlic and pimentón (Spanish smoked paprika, either sweet or hot), which gives it its deep brick-red color and smoky flavor. (Authentic Spanish, deeply smoky and tangy chorizo is a revelation—but there's also nothing like a spicy, beautifully greasy-in-the-best-way chorizo taco.)
3. Chorizo is Available Both Fully-Cooked and Semicured
In the United States, Spanish chorizo is available in two different forms: fully cooked and dry (to be sliced like salami/pepperoni), and fully cooked and soft (semicured). La Tienda sells both versions (in hot and mild varieties).
4. Mexican and Spanish Chorizo Aren't Interchangeable
Mexican chorizo and Spanish chorizo impart very different flavors—and behave differently—so they aren't interchangeable in recipes, people. According to culinary expert Anya von Bremzen's New Spanish Table, "While you shouldn't substitute fresh chorizo for semi-cured, dry chorizo can be used in its place if this all you can locate."
5. Think Beyond Chorizo and Eggs
Chorizo has made a name for itself at the breakfast table with chorizo and eggs—chorizo, however, can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be served as an hors d'ouvres with Manchego and olives. You can crisp chorizo and toss it into salads, particularly spinach. Or, simply warm it and mix it with any pasta "sauced" with kale, dried chile flakes and olives for a hearty dinner. You can also think of it as a seasoning: Render the paprika-and-garlic-rich fat and it can flavor anything from braised green beans to seared cod to dull cannellini.
Check out some of our favorite ways to cook chorizo that showcase the sausage's versatility:
Chorizo Bolognese with Buffalo Mozzarella
Brussels Sprout Leaves with Chorizo and Toasted Almonds
Cornbread, Chorizo, Cherry and Pecan Stuffing
Charred Octopus Taco with Harissa, Chorizo Crushed Potatoes, and Picked Ramps
Chorizo Lemon Butter
Grilled Chorizo, Goat Cheese and Watercress Pita Pizzas
Chorizo and Scrambled Eggs Breakfast Tacos
One-Pot Chicken and Chorizo
Calzones with Chorizo and Kale
Sheet-Pan Paella with Chorizo, Mussels and Shrimp
6. Remove the Outer Wrapper Before Cooking With Chorizo
If you're new to cooking with chorizo, this tip will come in handy: You're supposed to remove the casing before cooking.
7. Chorizo Lasts 1-2 Weeks
Wondering how long your chorizo will be good for? It lasts two weeks in the refrigerator. Once you slice it, however, it is only good for another week.
8. Chorizo is Not a Health Food
Delicious as it is, chorizo is a high-calorie, high-fat, high-sodium food. It is low-carb, though—and it fits into a ketogenic diet.
9. Chorizo Originated in Catalonia
Scholars believe that chorizo likely originated in Catalonia. In addition to Mexican and Spanish cooking, chorizo is also used regularly in Portuguese, Puerta Rican, Panamanian, South American, and Filipino cooking
10. It's So Good There's a Vegan Version
The taste of the spicy pork sausage is so desirable, vegans came up with their own meat-free version called Soyrizo.
Read more
Kristi Kellogg & Kerry Acker
What is chorizo? It's sausage. And it's delicious. Just about everyone loves chorizo (right?), but navigating the different types of chorizo, and figuring out how and when to use which types of chorizo, is a whole 'nother story. Here, ten things to know about chorizo.
1. It's Made of Pork
Chorizo is a highly seasoned chopped or ground pork sausage used in Spanish and Mexican cuisine. Mexican chorizo is made with fresh (raw, uncooked) pork, while the Spanish version is usually smoked.
2. It's Spicy
Mexican chorizo is typically seasoned with vinegar and chile peppers, while Spanish chorizo is made with garlic and pimentón (Spanish smoked paprika, either sweet or hot), which gives it its deep brick-red color and smoky flavor. (Authentic Spanish, deeply smoky and tangy chorizo is a revelation—but there's also nothing like a spicy, beautifully greasy-in-the-best-way chorizo taco.)
3. Chorizo is Available Both Fully-Cooked and Semicured
In the United States, Spanish chorizo is available in two different forms: fully cooked and dry (to be sliced like salami/pepperoni), and fully cooked and soft (semicured). La Tienda sells both versions (in hot and mild varieties).
4. Mexican and Spanish Chorizo Aren't Interchangeable
Mexican chorizo and Spanish chorizo impart very different flavors—and behave differently—so they aren't interchangeable in recipes, people. According to culinary expert Anya von Bremzen's New Spanish Table, "While you shouldn't substitute fresh chorizo for semi-cured, dry chorizo can be used in its place if this all you can locate."
5. Think Beyond Chorizo and Eggs
Chorizo has made a name for itself at the breakfast table with chorizo and eggs—chorizo, however, can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be served as an hors d'ouvres with Manchego and olives. You can crisp chorizo and toss it into salads, particularly spinach. Or, simply warm it and mix it with any pasta "sauced" with kale, dried chile flakes and olives for a hearty dinner. You can also think of it as a seasoning: Render the paprika-and-garlic-rich fat and it can flavor anything from braised green beans to seared cod to dull cannellini.
Check out some of our favorite ways to cook chorizo that showcase the sausage's versatility:
Chorizo Bolognese with Buffalo Mozzarella
Brussels Sprout Leaves with Chorizo and Toasted Almonds
Cornbread, Chorizo, Cherry and Pecan Stuffing
Charred Octopus Taco with Harissa, Chorizo Crushed Potatoes, and Picked Ramps
Chorizo Lemon Butter
Grilled Chorizo, Goat Cheese and Watercress Pita Pizzas
Chorizo and Scrambled Eggs Breakfast Tacos
One-Pot Chicken and Chorizo
Calzones with Chorizo and Kale
Sheet-Pan Paella with Chorizo, Mussels and Shrimp
6. Remove the Outer Wrapper Before Cooking With Chorizo
If you're new to cooking with chorizo, this tip will come in handy: You're supposed to remove the casing before cooking.
7. Chorizo Lasts 1-2 Weeks
Wondering how long your chorizo will be good for? It lasts two weeks in the refrigerator. Once you slice it, however, it is only good for another week.
8. Chorizo is Not a Health Food
Delicious as it is, chorizo is a high-calorie, high-fat, high-sodium food. It is low-carb, though—and it fits into a ketogenic diet.
9. Chorizo Originated in Catalonia
Scholars believe that chorizo likely originated in Catalonia. In addition to Mexican and Spanish cooking, chorizo is also used regularly in Portuguese, Puerta Rican, Panamanian, South American, and Filipino cooking
10. It's So Good There's a Vegan Version
The taste of the spicy pork sausage is so desirable, vegans came up with their own meat-free version called Soyrizo.
A Southwestern Burger Bar
Break Out the Chiles and Limes and Give Your Next Cookout a Twist.
Food Network Magazine Staff
The Goods: Terra Cotta Cazuela, $18; tienda.com
Read more
Food Network Magazine Staff
The Goods: Terra Cotta Cazuela, $18; tienda.com
Things We Like
Oil Around the World
Owen Dugan
Ego Sum Toro de Osborne Intense
$23 for 500ml, www.tienda.com
Spain - If you've been to Spain, you'll recognize the bull on this metal bottle; it's the billboard of the Osborne wine and liquor company. Today, they've branched out into emblematic gourmet products as well, including a range of oils. Two of the oils come from a family-run farm dating to the nineteenth century in Castilla-La Mancha. One is labeled Suave, or "subtle", and is predictably mild. The one labeled intense is a master class in the meaning of "fruity" in oil; it's nice and round, with a banana character. The finish is pleasantly bitter, but not peppery.
Read more
Owen Dugan
Ego Sum Toro de Osborne Intense
$23 for 500ml, www.tienda.com
Spain - If you've been to Spain, you'll recognize the bull on this metal bottle; it's the billboard of the Osborne wine and liquor company. Today, they've branched out into emblematic gourmet products as well, including a range of oils. Two of the oils come from a family-run farm dating to the nineteenth century in Castilla-La Mancha. One is labeled Suave, or "subtle", and is predictably mild. The one labeled intense is a master class in the meaning of "fruity" in oil; it's nice and round, with a banana character. The finish is pleasantly bitter, but not peppery.
2018 FATHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE
Wine Enthusiast Staff
Father’s Day is quickly approaching and every year we find ourselves scouring the shelves for the perfect gift to get dad. We’ve dug through some of our favorite wine, spirits and food gifts of the past year to put together an easy list of Father’s Day gift ideas. From whiskey barrel pens to reclaimed cork cufflinks, you’ll find the perfect present to say thank you to dad. Let’s get celebrating!
Red Wine Infused Cheese
Read more
Father’s Day is quickly approaching and every year we find ourselves scouring the shelves for the perfect gift to get dad. We’ve dug through some of our favorite wine, spirits and food gifts of the past year to put together an easy list of Father’s Day gift ideas. From whiskey barrel pens to reclaimed cork cufflinks, you’ll find the perfect present to say thank you to dad. Let’s get celebrating!
Red Wine Infused Cheese
Eat Your Way Around the World
Take a Trip to Italy, Japan and 35 more with these international eats, sweets and sips. No hotel reservation needed!
Mike Garten, Rebecca Jurkevich & Cate Geiger Kalus
Shop the World: With just a few clicks, you can have everything you need to create authentic international dishes.
Spain: Discover fine products produced by family-owned businesses in Spain.
Sherry Vinegar: Spain's star condiment provides a deeper, more complex flavor than other vinegars.
Read more
Mike Garten, Rebecca Jurkevich & Cate Geiger Kalus
Shop the World: With just a few clicks, you can have everything you need to create authentic international dishes.
Spain: Discover fine products produced by family-owned businesses in Spain.
Sherry Vinegar: Spain's star condiment provides a deeper, more complex flavor than other vinegars.
5 Things Rachael Ray is Loving Right Now: Floral Boots, Veggie Tartare, and More
Put a little spring in your step with Rach's fresh new faves.
Christina Izzo
“Paul Virant is a terrific chef. His greater Chicago restaurants Vie and Vistro should definitely be on your list. Paul also has a company, Jar Sessions, which makes preserved vegetables that taste amazingly fresh, like a garden in a jar.”
"José Andrés is not only one of the most amazingly compassionate people around—his work for the people of Puerto Rico is so inspiring—but he’s also one of the greatest living chefs on Planet Earth. José Andrés Extra Virgin Olive Oil Potato Chips are the best. I eat them with crème fraîche and caviar. I love you, blini, and someday I’m sure you’ll come back. But until then, these chips are everything.” $7 for 6.7 ounces, tienda.com
Read more
Christina Izzo
“Paul Virant is a terrific chef. His greater Chicago restaurants Vie and Vistro should definitely be on your list. Paul also has a company, Jar Sessions, which makes preserved vegetables that taste amazingly fresh, like a garden in a jar.”
"José Andrés is not only one of the most amazingly compassionate people around—his work for the people of Puerto Rico is so inspiring—but he’s also one of the greatest living chefs on Planet Earth. José Andrés Extra Virgin Olive Oil Potato Chips are the best. I eat them with crème fraîche and caviar. I love you, blini, and someday I’m sure you’ll come back. But until then, these chips are everything.” $7 for 6.7 ounces, tienda.com
Gifts that will make your loved ones smile
Herald Staff
You have a little less than a week, people. But thanks to speedy shipping and nearby stores, that’s plenty of time to get your loved one something special for Valentine’s Day. Whether your S.O. craves fashion, food, baubles or bubbly, we have a few fab finds to make your shopping easier.
Iberico ham gift box
$175, cincojotas.us, latienda.com
Give your foodie the gift of flavorful love with melt-in-your-mouth jamon from Cinco Jotas. They’ll get six sleeves of sliced, acorn-fed, 100 percent Iberico ham, a set of bamboo tongs to dine with and a bamboo cutting board.
Best Bacon Known to Man
Here are America’s Tastiest Artisanal Brands
Amanda Gabriele
Whether you eat a side of it for breakfast or pile it high on a BLT, bacon is one of life’s greatest pleasures (as evident by its prominent role in our podcast). That mixture of salt, fat, and crunch is downright addicting, especially if you’re biting into a piece of top-notch, quality meat. If you’re looking to buy the very best bacon, we rounded up seven succulent brands for you to try. These porky delights are at the top of their game, so you’re getting the very best when you fry up a strip.
This melt-in-your-mouth bacon is made from acorn-fed Spanish Ibérico pork that’s hand-rubbed with salt and slow smoked over hickory in Kentucky. Ibérico pigs roam free in the dehasa forests of southwest Spain where they get plenty of exercise and nutrients from the antioxidant-rich acorn diet. Nutty, smoky, savory and sweet, this bacon is like an adventure for your palate.
Read more
Amanda Gabriele
Whether you eat a side of it for breakfast or pile it high on a BLT, bacon is one of life’s greatest pleasures (as evident by its prominent role in our podcast). That mixture of salt, fat, and crunch is downright addicting, especially if you’re biting into a piece of top-notch, quality meat. If you’re looking to buy the very best bacon, we rounded up seven succulent brands for you to try. These porky delights are at the top of their game, so you’re getting the very best when you fry up a strip.
This melt-in-your-mouth bacon is made from acorn-fed Spanish Ibérico pork that’s hand-rubbed with salt and slow smoked over hickory in Kentucky. Ibérico pigs roam free in the dehasa forests of southwest Spain where they get plenty of exercise and nutrients from the antioxidant-rich acorn diet. Nutty, smoky, savory and sweet, this bacon is like an adventure for your palate.
How Our Food Editors Are Ringing in the New Year
So many tasty ways to welcome 2018!
Victoria Spencer
How is the team going to see out the old year and ring in the new? Why with plenty of good things to eat and drink of course!
A tapas bar is where Lindsay Strand and friends will be seeing the New Year. She studied in Barcelona, and has a soft spot for Spanish food "and its festive, communal tradition of sharing and eating." Of course "there will be pitchers of sangria and a midnight toast of cava or maybe Spanish sidra (cider) straight from the porrón!" And to eat, "a mixture of hot and room-temperature bites like ham-and-cheese croquettes, pan con tomate, tortilla española, gambas al ajillo, and stuffed piquillo peppers. Then paella to share."
Read more
Victoria Spencer
How is the team going to see out the old year and ring in the new? Why with plenty of good things to eat and drink of course!
A tapas bar is where Lindsay Strand and friends will be seeing the New Year. She studied in Barcelona, and has a soft spot for Spanish food "and its festive, communal tradition of sharing and eating." Of course "there will be pitchers of sangria and a midnight toast of cava or maybe Spanish sidra (cider) straight from the porrón!" And to eat, "a mixture of hot and room-temperature bites like ham-and-cheese croquettes, pan con tomate, tortilla española, gambas al ajillo, and stuffed piquillo peppers. Then paella to share."
14 Holiday Gifts Ideas the Latinas in Your Life Will Love
The Latinas in your life will love these 14 holiday gifts.
Frances Sola-Santiago
This is the ultimate hostess gift. Treat your BFF or prima with a curated selection of José Andrés Foods essentials straight from Spain. The basket includes a bottle of Arbequina extra virgin oil, breadsticks, and a bottle of sherry vinegar.
Read more
Frances Sola-Santiago
This is the ultimate hostess gift. Treat your BFF or prima with a curated selection of José Andrés Foods essentials straight from Spain. The basket includes a bottle of Arbequina extra virgin oil, breadsticks, and a bottle of sherry vinegar.
Cooking with 'Friends'
Campos-Duffy's Christmas Breakfast
Fox & Friends Staff
Rachel Campos-Duffy explains how she prepares some family favorites.
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Fox & Friends Staff
Rachel Campos-Duffy explains how she prepares some family favorites.
Gift Guide for Mom
Clara Meyer
What all moms need most is to be pampered and taken care of … just the way they did for us for all those years. Here are some of our favorites for our well-deserved mothers.
Aroma's vanilla and orange flavored olive oils will be perfect for a girls' night out or when her kids come home with their new significant other and she needs a quick and elegant dipping sauce.
Read more
What all moms need most is to be pampered and taken care of … just the way they did for us for all those years. Here are some of our favorites for our well-deserved mothers.
Aroma's vanilla and orange flavored olive oils will be perfect for a girls' night out or when her kids come home with their new significant other and she needs a quick and elegant dipping sauce.
