Chorizo(Mexican Sausage)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: Mexican

A smoky, spicy Mexican chorizo packed with paprika, cumin, and fresh cilantro—perfect for breakfast or a bold taco filling that delivers bold heat and savory depth.

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Ingredients

  • 5 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 2 Tbsp. paprika
  • 1 Tbsp. oregano
  • 2 tsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. cloves
  • 4 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • 3 dashes cayenne
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 5 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • 1 (4 oz.) can diced jalapenos
  • 1/3 c. white vinegar
  • 5 lb. coarse ground pork

Instructions

  1. Combine all dry spices in a blender until fine.
  2. Add minced garlic, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, and white vinegar to the blender and blend until smooth.
  3. Transfer the blended mixture to a large bowl.
  4. Toss the coarse ground pork with the blended mixture until well coated.
  5. Form the seasoned pork into patties and fry until cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, let the sausage mixture rest in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before cooking. You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the pork if you prefer a leaner option. Adjust the cayenne for heat level according to your taste. Fresh herbs like parsley can be used instead of cilantro if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chorizo in tacos or burritos, alongside eggs for a hearty breakfast, or as a topping for nachos. It pairs beautifully with Zucchini And Corn(Calabacitas Con Maiz) or can be crumbled into creamy dishes like Creamy Tex-Mex Pork Chops for an extra kick. Fresh salsa and avocado make great accompaniments.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chorizo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pan-fry on medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This chorizo also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chorizo(Mexican Sausage) contains roughly 294 calories, with 11g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (121% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2084mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).

294 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.3g 23% DV
Total Fat 14.4g 18% DV
Carbs 44.4g 16% DV
Fiber 17.2g 62% DV
Sugar 5.4g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2083.9mg 91% DV
Potassium 1263.1mg 27% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 859.1mcg 95% DV
Vitamin C 12.1mg 13% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 340.7mg 26% DV
Iron 21.7mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

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 this chorizo recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chorizo mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It's best if you let it marinate for a few hours to enhance the flavors. You can also freeze the uncooked mixture for later use.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of cayenne and replace it with more paprika for flavor without the heat. Alternatively, add fresh jalapeños to the mixture for a milder taste while still enjoying that signature chorizo kick.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chorizo?

Chorizo pairs well with a variety of sides, including Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it with Posole(Traditional Mexican Christmas Eve Supper) or alongside grilled vegetables.

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).

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