Taste The Flavors Of Spain! Discover How To Make Chorizo Con Papas Like A Pro
Chorizo con papas is a classic Spanish dish that combines the spicy flavors of chorizo sausage with the comforting warmth of potatoes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chorizo sausage, casing removed
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Brown the Chorizo:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the chorizo sausage until it’s cooked through and slightly crispy. Remove the chorizo from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the onion and garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened. Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Potatoes:
Pour the potato cubes into the skillet and stir to coat them in the spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Return the Chorizo:
Add the cooked chorizo back to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add Liquid:
Pour in the chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
If desired, you can thicken the sauce by adding a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Stir until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or tortillas.
Tips
- For a spicier dish, use a spicy chorizo sausage.
- If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika.
- You can add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.
- Chorizo con papas can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
Variations
- Chorizo con Patatas Bravas: Add a spicy tomato sauce to the dish for a bolder flavor.
- Chorizo con Papas a la Riojana: Use Rioja wine instead of chicken broth or water for a more complex flavor.
- Chorizo con Papas al Horno: Bake the dish in the oven for a crispy crust.
How to Store Chorizo con Papas
Chorizo con papas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Chorizo con papas is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. Here are some serving suggestions:
- With rice or beans
- With tortillas or bread
- As a topping for nachos or tacos
- As a filling for empanadas or burritos
The Perfect Pairing: Chorizo con Papas and Spanish Wine
Chorizo con papas pairs perfectly with a glass of Spanish wine. Here are some recommended pairings:
- Rioja: A full-bodied red wine with notes of cherry, plum, and spice.
- Tempranillo: A medium-bodied red wine with notes of red fruit, leather, and tobacco.
- Albarino: A crisp white wine with notes of green apple, citrus, and minerals.
Key Points: A Culinary Delight
Chorizo con papas is a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. So grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try today!
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use ground chorizo instead of link chorizo?
A: Yes, you can use ground chorizo. However, link chorizo will give you a more flavorful dish.
Q: What can I do if I don’t have chicken broth?
A: You can use water instead of chicken broth. However, chicken broth will add more flavor to the dish.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: You can use a spicy chorizo sausage or add some cayenne pepper to the dish.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.