Caldo Gallego Soup
Caldo Gallego is a hearty Spanish soup featuring ham, chorizo, vegetables, and beans, perfect for comforting meals and fans of savory, flavorful broths.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ham bone or hock, chorizos, and salt pork in water and cook for 30 minutes.
- Add greens and beans to the pot and continue cooking.
- Saute chopped onion and green pepper until transparent in olive oil.
- Add sautéed vegetables to the soup.
- Peel and cut potatoes into small cubes and add to the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional hour until flavors meld and potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks. If you're short on time, canned beans can be a quick substitute for dried ones. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra depth. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as the salt from the ham and pork can vary.
Serving Suggestions
Caldo Gallego soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side of Kartoffelsalat Mit Wurst (Potato Salad With Sausages) for a satisfying dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caldo Gallego Soup contains roughly 415 calories, with 16g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1693mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Caldo Gallego soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ham bone and meats with vegetable broth and smoked paprika for flavor. Add additional vegetables like carrots and celery to enhance the taste while keeping it hearty.
What type of greens can I use instead of collard greens?
Turnip greens or kale can be excellent substitutes for collard greens in this recipe. Both will provide a similar texture and flavor, making your soup equally delicious.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork without resistance. This usually takes about an hour of simmering in the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).