Cocido
A hearty Spanish stew featuring chorizo, beef, vegetables, and chickpeas, perfect for comforting gatherings and rich in bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. chorizo, sliced 1/4-inch
- 1 1/2 lb. stew meat, in small cubes ⓘ
- 1 large Spanish onion, coarsely chopped ⓘ
- 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 (1 lb.) can tomatoes ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. instant beef granules ⓘ
- 4 to 5 cups water ⓘ
- 1 can chickpeas or frozen black-eyed peas ⓘ
- 3/4 to 1 lb. yams, in small cubes, steamed
Instructions
- In a 5-quart saucepan, lightly brown the sliced chorizo.
- Remove the chorizo with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Add the stew meat to the drippings in the pan and brown.
- Just before the beef is finished browning, add the chopped onions and stir to brown lightly.
- Add the cooked chorizo, sliced carrots, canned tomatoes, and beef granules dissolved in water.
- Simmer covered until the beef is tender and the carrots are done.
- Skim off some of the fat from the surface.
- Add the canned chickpeas, steamed yams with their juices, salt, and pepper.
- Reheat the stew before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked paprika along with the chorizo. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef granules. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference, especially if using canned tomatoes that may be seasoned already.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cocido hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa. This hearty stew is also great with a side of cornbread or served over mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocido contains roughly 432 calories, with 18g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use a different type of meat in this cocido?
Yes, you can substitute the stew meat with chicken or pork if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will take less time to become tender. Make sure to brown the meat well for added flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also use spicy chorizo instead of the regular kind. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
What can I serve with cocido?
Cocido is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your meal with sides like crusty bread, a green salad, or rice. For a heartier option, consider serving it over mashed potatoes or alongside cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
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).