Best 2 Authentic Portuguese Caldo Verde Recipes

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In the realm of Portuguese cuisine, Caldo Verde reigns supreme as a comforting and flavorful soup that embodies the country's rich culinary heritage. This traditional dish, deeply rooted in the northern region of Minho, has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide with its vibrant green hue, hearty ingredients, and distinct smoky flavor. Caldo Verde is not just a soup; it's a symphony of textures and tastes, a testament to the Portuguese love for simple yet satisfying meals.

This article presents a comprehensive guide to crafting an authentic Caldo Verde, taking you on a culinary journey through the streets of Portugal. With step-by-step instructions and a treasure trove of variations, you'll discover the secrets of creating this beloved soup in the comfort of your own kitchen. From the classic recipe featuring tender kale, potatoes, and smoky chouriço sausage to vegetarian and vegan adaptations, this article caters to every palate and dietary preference.

As you delve into the world of Caldo Verde, you'll also uncover fascinating insights into its history, cultural significance, and regional variations. Learn why this humble soup has become a national treasure, treasured for its ability to warm hearts and bring families together.

So, prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the depths of Caldo Verde, uncovering its hidden treasures and unraveling the secrets behind its enduring popularity.

Recipes included in this article:

* Authentic Portuguese Caldo Verde: This recipe serves as the foundation for a traditional Caldo Verde, featuring a harmonious blend of kale, potatoes, smoky chouriço sausage, and a flavorful broth.

* Vegetarian Caldo Verde: For those seeking a meatless option, this variation swaps out the chouriço for a combination of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, resulting in a hearty and flavorful soup.

* Vegan Caldo Verde: This recipe caters to vegan dietary preferences, using vegetable broth and coconut milk to create a creamy and satisfying soup base. The kale and potatoes remain the stars of the show, delivering a nutritious and delicious meal.

* Caldo Verde with Chicken: This variation adds tender chicken to the mix, providing an extra layer of protein and depth of flavor. Perfect for those who prefer a more substantial soup.

* Caldo Verde with Linguica: This recipe incorporates linguica sausage, a popular Portuguese sausage known for its spicy and smoky flavor, adding an extra kick to the soup.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

CALDO VERDE (PORTUGUESE GREEN SOUP)



Caldo Verde (Portuguese Green Soup) image

This soup is a Portuguese favorite of mine. It is a creamy soup with the wonderful use of kale, giving it the green soup look. Enjoy it with a thick slice from your favorite loaf of bread!

Provided by SANDRA5

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Soup Recipes

Time 1h

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 9

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 onion, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
6 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 quarts cold water
6 ounces linguica sausage, thinly sliced
2 ½ teaspoons salt
ground black pepper to taste
1 pound kale, rinsed and julienned

Steps:

  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook onion and garlic in 3 tablespoons olive oil for 3 minutes. Stir in potatoes and cook, stirring constantly, 3 minutes more. Pour in water, bring to a boil, and let boil gently for 20 minutes, until potatoes are mushy.
  • Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-low heat, cook sausage until it has released most of its fat, 10 minutes. Drain.
  • Mash potatoes or puree the potato mixture with a blender or food processor. Stir the sausage, salt and pepper into the soup and return to medium heat. Cover and simmer 5 minutes.
  • Just before serving, stir kale into soup and simmer, 5 minutes, until kale is tender and jade green. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and serve at once.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 401.8 calories, Carbohydrate 45.2 g, Cholesterol 24.6 mg, Fat 20.2 g, Fiber 5.2 g, Protein 11.7 g, SaturatedFat 5.4 g, Sodium 1352 mg, Sugar 3.4 g

CALDO VERDE (PORTUGUESE SAUSAGE KALE SOUP)



Caldo Verde (Portuguese Sausage Kale Soup) image

This soup is so hearty and comforting, you'll almost forget how good it is for you. And it's perfect for cold weather with the spicy sausage, kale, potatoes, and plenty of chicken broth.

Provided by Chef John

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Soup Recipes

Time 1h20m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 9

12 ounces linguica sausage, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely diced
1 pinch salt
3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick
2 teaspoons salt, plus more as needed
2 quarts chicken broth or water
2 pounds kale - trimmed, chopped, rinsed, drained
1 pinch cayenne pepper

Steps:

  • Slice sausage into 1/4-inch rounds. Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and saute until sausage begins to turn brown and renders some fat, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a dish. Reduce heat to medium-low; add onions and pinch of salt salt. Stir and cook until softened, 4 to 5 minutes.
  • Transfer potatoes to pot. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons salt. Pour in chicken broth. Increase heat to high and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer until potatoes are tender, 8 to 10 minutes.
  • When potatoes are tender, carefully mash them in the broth with a potato masher until broken up or completely mashed. Add kale, a handful at a time. Transfer browned sausage to soup. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until greens are tender, about 45 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 564.8 calories, Carbohydrate 62.1 g, Cholesterol 55.9 mg, Fat 25.6 g, Fiber 6.6 g, Protein 25.1 g, SaturatedFat 8.6 g, Sodium 2850.6 mg, Sugar 4.3 g

Tips for Making Caldo Verde:

  • Use fresh collard greens or kale for the best flavor.
  • If you can't find linguica, you can substitute Portuguese sausage or even kielbasa.
  • Add a splash of white wine to the soup for extra depth of flavor.
  • Don't overcook the potatoes or they will become mushy.
  • Serve Caldo Verde with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt and a sprinkle of paprika.

Conclusion:

Caldo Verde is a delicious and hearty Portuguese soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you're looking for a comforting and flavorful soup, give Caldo Verde a try.

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