The origins of Chorizo

Chorizo is a type of spicy sausage that originated in the Iberian Peninsula, which includes the countries of Spain and Portugal. In Portugal, chorizo is a popular ingredient in many dishes and is often grilled to add flavor and depth to a variety of dishes. Here are some popular chorizo grill dishes from Portugal that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Grilled chorizo dishes

One of the most popular chorizo grill dishes in Portugal is chorizo assado, or grilled chorizo. This dish is simple yet flavorful, and is made by grilling slices of chorizo over an open flame until they are crisp and slightly charred. A ceramic clay burner called an assador or chorizo grill dish is typically used to do this. This traditional terracotta dish quickly caramalizes the chorizo fat which melts the sausage ready to eat. The chorizo is then served with bread or potatoes and a side of pico de gallo or a tomato-based sauce.

Another popular chorizo grill dish is chorizo grelhado com feijão, or grilled chorizo with beans. This dish is made by grilling chorizo and serving it with a side of beans, typically white beans or kidney beans. The chorizo adds a spicy and smoky flavor to the beans, making them a perfect accompaniment to the sausage.

For a more substantial meal, chorizo com arroz, or chorizo with rice, is a great option. This dish is made by grilling chorizo and serving it with a bed of rice and vegetables. The chorizo adds flavor and richness to the rice, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Chorizo is also a popular ingredient in skewered dishes, such as espetadas de chorizo, or chorizo skewers. To make this dish, slices of chorizo are skewered and grilled over an open flame until they are cooked through. The skewers are then served with a side of vegetables or potatoes.

In addition to being a delicious ingredient in grill dishes, chorizo is also a common topping for sandwiches and pizzas. Chorizo sandwiches, or sanduíches de chorizo, are made by grilling slices of chorizo and placing them on a bun or bread with lettuce, tomato, and other toppings. Chorizo pizza, or pizza de chorizo, is made by adding slices of chorizo to a pizza along with other toppings such as onions, peppers, and cheese.

Chorizo is a versatile ingredient that adds flavor and depth to a variety of dishes. Whether it's grilled and served with beans or used as a topping for sandwiches and pizzas, chorizo is sure to be a hit with food lovers. So the next time you're in Portugal, be sure to try some of these delicious chorizo grill dishes.