Caldo Verde is a warm and comforting Portuguese soup made with greens, potatoes, and lots of flavor. It’s healthy and perfect for chilly days!
This soup is super easy to make, and I love how just a few simple ingredients can create something so tasty. Don’t forget to add smoky chorizo for a little extra yum! 🌿🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the soup. You can swap it for vegetable oil if needed, but I love the rich taste olive oil brings.
Onion: A medium onion is perfect for base flavor. If you have a shallot on hand, it’s a great alternative for a milder taste.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well here. If you want to keep it lower-carb, try cauliflower instead, though the texture may vary.
Kale or Collard Greens: These greens bring color and nutrition. If you can’t find them, spinach or Swiss chard can work too, but add them later to keep a vibrant color.
Chorizo: The smokiness of chorizo adds depth. For a lighter option, turkey chorizo or even tempeh can be used for a vegetarian twist.
What’s the Best Way to Blend the Potatoes for the Right Texture?
Getting that perfect texture is important for Caldo Verde. After cooking the potatoes, you want some blended for a creamy base while keeping some chunks for heartiness. Here’s how:
- Use a potato masher for a rustic texture—just mash a bit.
- If you want it smoother, carefully use an immersion blender, blending just part of the soup.
- Be cautious not to over-blend, which can make it too creamy.
I find that leaving some potato pieces makes the soup feel more substantial and satisfying!
Caldo Verde: A Hearty Portuguese Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced or diced
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 bunch kale or collard greens, finely shredded
- 200 g chorizo sausage, sliced into thin rounds
- Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Caldo Verde takes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any time of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will build a lovely foundation of flavor for your soup.
2. Add Garlic:
Once the onion is ready, add the minced garlic. Cook it for another minute until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Next, add the thinly sliced or diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the water or chicken broth and increase the heat to bring it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Create the Soup Base:
After the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to gently mash some of the potatoes in the broth. This will help thicken your soup while still keeping some texture.
5. Season the Soup:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and black pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust according to your preference!
6. Add Greens and Chorizo:
Stir in the shredded kale or collard greens along with the sliced chorizo. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. You want the greens to become tender and the chorizo to heat through.
7. Final Adjustments:
Give it a final taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. Your soup is almost ready!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Caldo Verde hot, garnished with a lovely sprig of fresh rosemary if you wish. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for cozy meals!
This traditional Portuguese dish is sure to warm your heart and your home! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Greens in Caldo Verde?
Absolutely! While traditional Caldo Verde uses kale or collard greens, you can easily substitute with spinach, Swiss chard, or even mustard greens. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary depending on the green you choose.
How Can I Store Leftover Caldo Verde?
Leftover Caldo Verde can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find the soup thickens after refrigeration, just reheat it with a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the chorizo and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve a similar smoky flavor!
What Can I Serve with Caldo Verde?
Caldo Verde is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also goes wonderfully with some traditional Portuguese cornbread!
