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minimal effort. What makes this dish exceptional is the bold infusion of smoky chorizo flavor into every component—especially the potatoes, which soak up the essence of the paprika-rich sausage.
It’s a one-pot meal that comes together in under an hour and is deeply satisfying, making it ideal for weeknights or cozy weekends.
Nutritionally, this stew strikes a balanced profile: it’s protein-rich (15g per serving) thanks to the chorizo, and fiber-dense (6g) from the potatoes and bell pepper.
It’s also a good source of monounsaturated fats from olive oil and contains a notable dose of vitamin C and potassium, supporting immune health and heart function.
While it’s hearty and indulgent, it avoids overly processed ingredients, making it a wholesome and flavorful option for everyday cooking.
Plus, the leftovers are even better, making it perfect for meal prep.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Le Creuset 4.2L Dutch Oven
This enameled cast iron pot ensures even heat distribution and steady simmering, which is essential for coaxing out the smoky, rich flavors in this stew. It’s a lifetime investment for soups, braises, and stews of all kinds.
Garlic Press
A sturdy garlic press helps release all the aromatic oils instantly, saving time and maximizing flavor. Great for any dish that needs a garlic punch without tedious mincing.
Chopping Board with Juice Groove
Ideal for prepping vegetables and chorizo mess-free. A groove keeps juices from spilling over—perfect when working with oily or juicy ingredients like bell pepper or sausage.
Pyrex Measuring Cups
These heat-resistant cups allow you to measure and pour stock directly into the pot with precision. They’re durable, microwave-safe, and essential for liquids in any recipe.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
A quality knife is critical for clean, efficient chopping of onions, bell pepper, and potatoes. A sharp blade ensures uniform cooking and safer prep.
Spanish Chorizo and Potato Stew
Equipment
- 1 Chopping Board
- 1 Kitchen Knife
- 1 Garlic Press
- 1 set – Measuring Spoons
- 1 set Pyrex Measuring Cups
- 1 Le Creuset Dutch Oven (4.2L)
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion finely chopped
- 200 grams 7 ounces Spanish chorizo, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 4 cloves garlic minced or pressed
- 1 large red bell pepper seeded and diced
- 500 grams 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 to 1½-inch chunks
- 2½ to 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock as needed
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Start with Flavorful Foundations: Warm the olive oil in a medium or large heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven) over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent—about 6 to 8 minutes. This base builds sweetness into the stew.
- Sauté Chorizo and Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sliced chorizo to the pot. Stir regularly and cook for about 2 minutes. As the chorizo begins to sizzle, it will release its rich, smoky oils, infusing the base with bold flavor and color.
- Incorporate Bell Pepper and Potatoes: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and potato chunks. Stir everything together so the vegetables are coated in the flavorful oils and juices from the chorizo. Let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soak up some of the smoky goodness.
- Add Stock and Seasoning: Pour in just enough stock to cover the mixture—start with 2½ cups and add more only if needed to submerge the ingredients. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and a pinch of salt (remember, the chorizo already brings saltiness). Give it all a good stir to combine.
- Simmer Until Perfectly Tender: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and infused with chorizo flavor. If there’s too much liquid at the end, remove the lid and simmer uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes to reduce and concentrate the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Stock Control Tip: Avoid adding all the broth at once. Begin with just enough to cover the potatoes and chorizo, then top up only if needed during cooking.
- Simmering Hack: If your stew looks too soupy toward the end, remove the lid and simmer uncovered to let the excess liquid evaporate and thicken naturally.
- Seasoning Wisely: Chorizo is packed with flavor and salt, so always taste the stew before adding extra salt. Adjust seasoning at the end for best results.
- Spice It Up: Prefer a little heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot smoked paprika for a spicier version.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors deepen. It’s a perfect candidate for meal prep or leftovers.
Chef’s Secrets for Richer Flavor
To truly elevate this Spanish Chorizo and Potato Stew, start by selecting high-quality Spanish chorizo, preferably one with a rich smoky depth—this is the soul of the dish.
Cooking the chorizo early in the process allows its paprika-infused oils to coat the onions, garlic, and potatoes, forming a deeply flavorful base.
For added complexity, consider using a mix of sweet and hot smoked paprika.
Don’t rush the simmering phase—gentle heat over time allows the potatoes to absorb the chorizo’s essence, making every bite deeply satisfying.
Also, be cautious with seasoning; chorizo is inherently salty, so always taste before adding extra salt.
If you enjoy layered textures, try using a mix of waxy and starchy potatoes—some will hold their shape while others break down to slightly thicken the broth naturally.
Delicious and Practical Serving Suggestions
This stew is hearty enough to shine on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can complete the meal.
Serve it with a warm slice of crusty bread—like sourdough or rustic country loaf—to soak up the flavorful broth.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the rich, smoky stew.
For an authentic Spanish touch, pair it with a glass of Rioja wine or a chilled Albariño.
You can also spoon it over steamed rice or buttered couscous for a heartier presentation.
Hosting a dinner? Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or smoked sea salt for a touch of color and finish.
Best Storage and Reheating Practices
This stew stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great candidate for meal prep or leftovers.
Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. As the flavors develop, it often tastes even better the next day.
To freeze, let the stew cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months.
When reheating, use the stovetop on low heat and add a splash of water or stock to loosen the consistency, as the potatoes tend to absorb liquid over time.
Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered Clearly
1. Can I use another type of sausage instead of Spanish chorizo?
Yes, though Spanish chorizo provides a unique smoky flavor that defines the dish. If unavailable, use a smoked sausage or kielbasa with a sprinkle of smoked paprika to replicate some of the depth.
2. What type of potatoes work best for this stew?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well, while starchy ones like Russet tend to break down and thicken the broth. You can use either based on your texture preference—or combine both.
3. Is this recipe suitable for a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After sautéing the chorizo, garlic, and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While traditional, meat-based chorizo is essential for flavor, you can try vegan Spanish-style chorizo and add smoked paprika and a dash of soy sauce or liquid smoke to mimic the depth.
5. How can I reduce the fat content?
To make the dish lighter, you can reduce the olive oil to 2 tablespoons and use a leaner or plant-based chorizo alternative. Skimming excess oil from the surface before serving also helps.
This recipe is inspired by foodandjourneys and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.