Caldo Verde is a traditional Portuguese soup known for its comforting and rich flavors. Made with creamy potatoes, vibrant kale, and smoky chorizo, this rustic dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. It’s a simple yet satisfying soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Portuguese Flavor – A classic dish from Portugal with deep, smoky, and savory notes.
- Hearty and Comforting – Creamy potatoes and rich chorizo create a satisfying meal.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together in one pot for a hassle-free dish.
- Nutritious and Wholesome – Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins from the potatoes and greens.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup thinly sliced kale or collard greens
- 6 oz Portuguese chorizo (chouriço), sliced
- Extra olive oil for drizzling
Directions
- Sauté the aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Cook the potatoes – Add the diced potatoes, broth, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Blend the soup – Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully blend in batches.
- Add the greens – Stir in the thinly sliced kale or collard greens and let simmer for 5 minutes until softened.
- Cook the chorizo – In a separate pan, fry the sliced chorizo over medium heat until crispy. Add to the soup.
- Finish and serve – Drizzle with extra olive oil before serving. Enjoy hot with crusty bread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings – 4 servings
- Prep Time – 10 minutes
- Cooking Time – 30 minutes
- Total Time – 40 minutes
- Calories – 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicier Version – Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy chorizo.
- Vegetarian Option – Omit the chorizo and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
- Chunky Texture – Instead of blending all the potatoes, mash some with a fork for a chunkier soup.
- Extra Greens – Add spinach or Swiss chard for a nutrient boost.
- Lighter Version – Use turkey sausage instead of chorizo for a lower-fat alternative.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
- Freezing – Freeze the soup (without the chorizo) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sausage instead of chorizo?
Yes, but chorizo adds a smoky depth. If using fresh sausage, brown it well for extra flavor.
What’s the best potato for Caldo Verde?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
Can I make this soup without blending it?
Yes, just mash some of the potatoes for a more rustic consistency.
What’s the difference between Portuguese chorizo and Spanish chorizo?
Portuguese chouriço is slightly softer and less cured than Spanish chorizo, but both work in this recipe.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors develop even more after a day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
What can I serve with Caldo Verde?
It pairs well with crusty bread, a glass of red wine, or a simple green salad.
Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen kale works well—just thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the soup.
How do I make a creamier soup?
Blend all the potatoes or stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Can I add beans for extra protein?
Yes, white beans or chickpeas make a great addition to the soup.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chorizo and broth are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Caldo Verde is a classic Portuguese soup that’s both comforting and easy to make. With its smooth potato base, hearty greens, and smoky chorizo, this dish brings warmth and rich flavors to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or meal prepping for the week, this traditional soup is a must-try. Serve it with crusty bread and enjoy a taste of Portugal in every spoonful!
