Spicy Chorizo Soup

A hearty, flavorful soup loaded with spicy chorizo, veggies, and a touch of spice. This soup is the ultimate comfort food, great for warming you up from the inside out!

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spicy chorizo sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra depth, if preferred)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (choose your favorite color for added vibrancy!)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Chorizo:

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat over medium. Add the chorizo sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Allow it to cook until fully browned, around 6-8 minutes.
• Tip: If there’s too much grease from the chorizo, drain it, leaving a tablespoon or two for flavor.
• Remove the chorizo from the pot with a slotted spoon, setting it aside on a paper-towel-lined plate.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

• Using the same pot, add diced onion to the remaining chorizo drippings. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring until it becomes translucent.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

3. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the browned chorizo back to the pot, along with the diced tomatoes, broth, black beans, corn, bell pepper, and cumin. Stir everything together, bringing the soup up to a gentle boil.
• Optional Addition: For even more flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of lime juice.

4. Simmer:

• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.
• Taste the soup and adjust seasonings, adding salt and pepper as desired.

5. Serve and Garnish:

• Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing each with a handful of fresh cilantro if desired.
• Enjoy your spicy chorizo soup hot with a side of crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Here are some tips to make your Spicy Chorizo Soup even better:

Amp Up the Heat:

• Extra Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Spicy Garnish: Top with sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or even diced poblano peppers for a smoky kick.

Texture and Flavor Boosts:

• Thicker Texture: For a heartier soup, mash a few of the black beans before adding them to the pot. This will thicken the broth and give it a creamier feel.
• Add Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Dice small cubes and toss them in along with the other vegetables. They’ll absorb the soup’s flavors while adding a nice texture.

Veggie Variety:

• Try Different Vegetables: Zucchini, spinach, or kale can add extra nutrients. Add these towards the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
• Roasted Corn: If using frozen or canned corn, give it a quick roast in the oven or a hot skillet before adding it. This will add a smoky flavor and a touch of sweetness.

Add Brightness:

• Acid Balances Spice: Add a splash of lime juice or a few dashes of vinegar right before serving to brighten up the flavors and balance the spiciness.

Flavor Tips:

• Cook the Garlic Slowly: Garlic burns quickly. Sauté it over lower heat for a mellow flavor that enhances the soup without overpowering it.
• Try Smoked Paprika: If you have it, add a dash of smoked paprika for depth; it pairs well with chorizo’s spices.

Serve Creatively:

• Top with Tortilla Strips or Chips: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle tortilla strips or chips on top.
• Bread Bowls: Serve the soup in a bread bowl for a cozy, hearty meal!

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