Chorizo is a flavorful and spicy sausage that can make any dish more delicious. Whether you’re frying it for breakfast, grilling it for dinner, or mixing it into your favorite recipes, chorizo adds a burst of taste with every bite. In this guide, we’ll show you how easy it is to cook different types of chorizo—whether it’s Mexican chorizo or Spanish chorizo—so you can enjoy its rich flavors in no time. Let’s dive into the simple steps to cook it perfectly and answer common questions like “how long does chorizo take to cook” and “how do you know when chorizo is done.”
Understanding Chorizo and its Types
Chorizo, a flavorful and spicy sausage, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Before diving into how to cook chorizo, it’s important to understand the types of chorizo available. There are two main varieties: Mexican chorizo and Spanish chorizo.
Mexican chorizo
Mexican chorizo is made from ground pork (or sometimes ground beef) and is typically sold raw. It’s seasoned with dried chiles, garlic, and vinegar. This variety must be cooked before consumption, making it perfect for frying up in a pan or adding to dishes like scrambled eggs.
Spanish chorizo
Spanish chorizo, on the other hand, is typically cured or smoked. This means it’s usually fully cooked and can be sliced and eaten without additional cooking. Spanish chorizo is often made with paprika, which gives it its distinct red color and rich flavor. It’s great for slicing and adding to charcuterie boards or grilling.
Cooking Fresh Mexican Chorizo
When learning how to cook chorizo, starting with Mexican chorizo is ideal, as it requires a few simple steps and minimal ingredients. Whether you’re cooking Mexican-style chorizo or the cured Spanish version, there are several ways to prepare it to maximize its bold flavors. Here’s a simple guide to cooking chorizo to achieve delicious results every time.
Ingredients
- Fresh chorizo (about 1 pound)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil to prevent the chorizo from sticking. If the chorizo contains a lot of excess fat, you can reduce the amount of oil or omit it entirely.
Step 2: Cook the Chorizo
Remove the casing from the fresh chorizo, then add it to the heated pan. Use a spatula to break the sausage into smaller pieces, similar to cooking ground meat. Stir frequently, ensuring that it cooks evenly.
Step 3: Cooking Time
The question “how long to cook chorizo” often arises. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chorizo should turn a deep red color and begin to slightly brown. You’ll also notice the fat rendering out as the chorizo cooks.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
A common question is, “How do you know when chorizo is done”? To check, make sure that the meat is no longer pink. The chorizo should be browned and slightly crispy. If you’re using a meat thermometer, fully cooked chorizo should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This is an essential part of knowing how to tell when chorizo is cooked.
Serving Suggestions
- Mix with scrambled eggs for a delicious chorizo and egg breakfast.
- Use as a topping for tacos, nachos, or tostadas.
- Add it to soups, stews, or chili for an extra kick of flavor.
Cooking Spanish Cured Chorizo
Unlike Mexican chorizo, Spanish chorizo is a cured sausage that’s ready to eat but can also be cooked to enhance its smoky paprika flavors.
Ingredients
- Sliced Spanish chorizo (cured)
- Olive oil (optional)
- A non-stick skillet
Slice the chorizo
If the chorizo isn’t pre-sliced, cut it into thin slices (about ¼-inch thick).
Heat the skillet
Set a skillet over medium heat. You can add a little olive oil to the pan, though the chorizo will release its own flavorful oils as it cooks.
Fry the chorizo slices
Add the slices of chorizo to the hot skillet and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side. The goal is to slightly crisp the edges and release the oils.
Serve hot
Once browned and crispy, remove the chorizo from the skillet and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
- Add to charcuterie boards as a crispy, savory element.
- Serve as a tapas dish with bread and cheese.
- Toss with pasta or use it to garnish soups like lentil or bean stew.
Grilling Chorizo Links
Grilling is another excellent way to cook whole chorizo links, especially for outdoor gatherings or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
- Chorizo links (either Mexican or Spanish)
- Olive oil (optional)
- Grill or grill pan
Method
- Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Lightly brush the chorizo with olive oil to prevent sticking, though they usually have enough fat to grill without it.
- Place the chorizo links directly on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After grilling, allow the chorizo to rest for a minute, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with grilled vegetables for a smoky, flavorful meal.
- Add to sandwiches or wraps with roasted peppers and onions.
- Use as a topping for salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes.
Baking Chorizo in the Oven
If you want a hands-off method, baking chorizo in the oven is a great option, especially for large quantities.
Ingredients
- Chorizo links or ground chorizo
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
Method
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- For chorizo links, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For ground chorizo, break it up into chunks on the baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the links halfway through for even cooking. Ground chorizo should be stirred occasionally to cook evenly.
- The chorizo should be firm and fully cooked. Links should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roasted potatoes and vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Use as a stuffing for baked bell peppers or portobello mushrooms.
- Add baked chorizo to casseroles or frittatas.
How Long Does Chorizo Take to Cook?
For Mexican chorizo, the total cooking time is usually 8-10 minutes. For Spanish chorizo, grilling or frying it typically takes less time, around 5-6 minutes in total, depending on the thickness of the slices.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chorizo
Drain excess fat
Depending on the fat content of your chorizo, you may want to drain the excess fat after cooking, especially when using it in recipes like tacos or casseroles.
Don’t overcook
Chorizo can become tough and chewy if overcooked, so be sure to monitor its doneness, especially with fresh varieties.
Pair with complementary flavors
Chorizo pairs beautifully with ingredients like eggs, potatoes, beans, cheese, and garlic. For a more balanced dish, add fresh herbs or citrus to counter its richness.
Conclusion
Cooking chorizo is a simple process that results in deliciously savory and spicy dishes. Whether you’re frying fresh Mexican chorizo, crisping up Spanish chorizo, or grilling whole links, these easy methods will help you achieve flavorful results. Experiment with different recipes and enjoy the vibrant taste of chorizo in your meals.