Caldo Verde is a warm and cozy Portuguese soup made with simple ingredients like kale, potatoes, and chorizo. It’s perfect for a chilly day when you want something hearty and comforting!
Whenever I make it, I feel like I’m wrapped in a warm blanket! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up. Just blend, simmer, and enjoy—it’s like a hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I love using starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamy texture. If you need a substitute, sweet potatoes add a sweet twist and vibrant color.
Kale: Traditional recipes use collard greens, but any leafy green like Swiss chard or spinach works too. Just adjust cooking times as some greens wilt faster.
Chorizo: Portuguese chorizo gives the best flavor, but any smoked sausage will do. For a lighter option, use turkey sausage or omit it for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: Quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor. If you’re out, any neutral oil will work, but it’s worth it to stick with olive oil for that authentic taste.
How Do I Smoothly Blend the Soup?
Blending the soup is key for that creamy texture. If you’re using an immersion blender, simply blend it directly in the pot. If you’re using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
- Blend in batches if using a regular blender—fill it only halfway to prevent overflow.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the olive oil and sausage.
- Blend until you reach your desired consistency; a little texture is perfect for this soup!
How to Make Caldo Verde
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 1 lb (450g) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) Portuguese chorizo or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 6 cups kale or collard greens, finely shredded
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Caldo Verde recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick choice for a cozy dinner. So in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large pot, add the water or chicken broth, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Bring it all to a boil over medium-high heat. This will create a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer until the potatoes are very tender, which should take about 20 minutes. You can test by poking them with a fork; they should easily break apart.
3. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it’s mostly smooth but still has some texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup in batches using a regular blender, then return it to the pot. This gives it that lovely creamy consistency!
4. Add Flavor:
Stir in the olive oil for richness and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. It’s amazing how much a touch of oil can enhance the flavor!
5. Bring in the Sausage:
Add the sliced chorizo or smoked sausage to the soup and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors from the sausage to infuse into the soup, making it even more delicious.
6. Add the Greens:
Now it’s time to mix in the shredded kale or collard greens. Cook for about 5 more minutes until the greens are tender but still bright and vibrant. This adds a nice color and nutrition to your soup!
7. Final Adjustments:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. It’s all about personal preference, so don’t hesitate!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish the soup into bowls and garnish with some fresh chopped parsley, if you like. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade Caldo Verde!
This hearty soup is a fantastic way to warm up and nourish your body. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Greens in Caldo Verde?
Absolutely! While traditional recipes use kale or collard greens, you can substitute with Swiss chard or spinach. Just keep in mind that softer greens like spinach will cook much faster, so add them toward the end.
Can I Make Caldo Verde Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chorizo or sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add beans (like cannellini or chickpeas) for extra protein and texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freezer Caldo Verde?
Yes, it freezes well! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
