Learn how to cook Mexican chorizo like a pro in under 15 minutes!
Mexican chorizo is a beloved ingredient among home chefs worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the basics of chorizo, different variations, where to buy it, and even share mouth-watering recipes. Get ready to elevate your taco game!
What is Chorizo?
Chorizo is a type of pork sausage seasoned with a delightful blend of spices. There are two main types of chorizo:
- Spanish or European chorizo: This is a cured or smoked sausage that can be eaten without cooking.
- Mexican or Latin American chorizo: This raw, ground sausage should be cooked before consumption.
Types of Mexican/Latin American Chorizo
While pork is the traditional meat used in chorizo, you can also find variations made with beef, chicken, turkey, and even tofu for our vegan friends. In this guide, we’ll primarily focus on Mexican/Latin American chorizo. However, if you’re interested, there’s a wide array of cured European-style chorizo to explore.
Mexican chorizo is typically made with ground pork, chile pepper, spices, and vinegar. It tends to be spicier than Spanish chorizo, but the heat level varies depending on the region and the amount of chile peppers used. Tex-Mex chorizo, commonly found in the U.S., is made with vinegar, pork and beef “byproducts,” and plenty of fat. It has a distinct crumbly texture and renders lots of grease when cooked.
Where to Buy Chorizo
Chorizo is widely available in local grocery stores across the U.S. When purchasing, opt for fresh chorizo, which means it is still raw. You’ll need to remove the casing before cooking for most recipes.
For the freshest and most authentic chorizo, consider visiting a local Mexican market or international grocer. They offer a wide selection that will transport your taste buds to Mexico. If these options are not accessible, your local grocery store should have a range of brands to choose from. Look for popular ones like Cacique, Supremo, Andy Garcia Foods, El Mexicano, and Chorizo de San Manuel. Some of these brands even offer online shipping!
And if all else fails, why not try making your own homemade chorizo?
What Pan to Use for Cooking Chorizo
For cooking chorizo, it’s best to use either a nonstick frying pan or a cast iron skillet. These pans prevent the chorizo from sticking and burning, ensuring a perfect cook.
Cooking Chorizo: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking chorizo is easier than you think and takes less than 10 minutes.
- Heat a nonstick frying pan or a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chorizo, breaking it up into small, bite-sized pieces with a spatula.
- Cook for about 6-9 minutes until the chorizo is cooked through.
The cooking time may vary depending on the type of chorizo. Homemade or authentic chorizo will start to brown, similar to other ground meats. However, Tex-Mex chorizo, with its deep red color, makes it a bit challenging to detect browning. Look for a slightly darker shade of red and the fat beginning to render from the pork.
Delicious Recipes with Mexican Chorizo
Now that you’ve mastered cooking chorizo, it’s time to explore some delectable recipes. Here are a few of my favorite Mexican chorizo dishes:
- Simple Chorizo Street Tacos: Customize these tacos to your liking with fun toppings. They’re ready in just 30 minutes!
- Mexican Breakfast Tacos: Combine chorizo, bell peppers, and potatoes with fluffy scrambled eggs and avocado slices for a divine breakfast.
- Papas Con Chorizo: Check out Isabel Eats for her delicious papas con chorizo recipe. Don’t forget to serve it with fresh tortillas and top it off with cilantro.
- Choriqueso (Queso Fundido with Chorizo): Muy Bueno Cookbook shares an irresistible recipe with melted Mexican cheese loaded with chorizo, caramelized onions, and bell peppers. Perfect for your next party!
- Pork Chorizo & Cheese Empanadas: My Big Fat Cuban Family cooks up mouth-watering empanadas with panela cheese, onions, peppers, and white wine. They make a fantastic appetizer or a satisfying lunch dish.
Let’s Share Recipes!
I’m always excited to discover new recipes. Let’s connect on Pinterest and explore the culinary world together!
P.S. If you try your hand at making chorizo using these tips and tricks, share a picture with me on Instagram using #HomebodyEats. I can’t wait to see your creations!
Remember, with this ultimate guide, you’ll become a chorizo connoisseur in no time. Get ready to elevate your cooking skills and indulge in the rich flavors of Mexican chorizo. ¡Buen provecho!
