What Is Chorizo?
Mexican style chorizo is a flavorful, boldly seasoned sausage made primarily from ground pork mixed with a rich blend of spices like chili powder, paprika, garlic, cumin, and vinegar. Unlike Spanish chorizo, which is cured and sliced, Mexican chorizo is sold uncured and needs to be cooked before eating. It has a reddish color and a spicy, slightly tangy flavor that adds a kick to any dish. When cooked, it crumbles like ground beef and is commonly used in tacos, breakfast burritos, quesadillas, or mixed with eggs, potatoes, or beans. Its robust taste and savory aroma make it a favorite in Mexican home cooking.
How Can I Use It?
Mexican chorizo is incredibly versatile and adds bold flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Here are some tasty ways to use it!
-
Mexican Chorizo Tacos – Served with sautéed onions, peppers, salsa verde, cilantro, and queso fresco.
-
Papas con Chorizo (Chorizo and Potatoes) – A hearty combo of crispy potatoes and savory chorizo.
-
Chorizo Burrito Skillet – A one-pan meal with chorizo, rice, beans, and cheese.
-
Chorizo Smash Tacos – Chorizo smashed onto tortillas and cooked until crispy, topped with guac and pickled onions.
-
Chorizo & Grits Breakfast Bowls – Creamy grits topped with spicy chorizo and a fried egg.
-
Chorizo and Sweet Potato Hash – A nutritious mix of sweet potatoes, chorizo, and kale.
-
Queso Fundido with Chorizo – Melted cheese dip with chorizo, perfect for sharing.
-
Chorizo-Stuffed Bell Peppers – Bell peppers filled with chorizo, rice, and cheese.
-
Chorizo and Egg Breakfast Burritos – Scrambled eggs and chorizo wrapped in a tortilla.
-
Chorizo Pizza – A spicy twist on classic pizza using crumbled chorizo as a topping.
How Ours Is Different
When made with our pasture-raised pork, Mexican chorizo has a noticeably richer, cleaner, and more robust flavor compared to versions made with conventionally raised pork. The meat itself tends to have a slightly sweeter, deeper pork flavor because pasture-raised pigs often have a more varied and natural diet, which enhances the taste and texture of the meat. This quality complements the bold spices in chorizo, resulting in a more balanced, savory bite—where the spices don’t overwhelm but instead work in harmony with the meat. You may also notice less greasiness and a more satisfying mouthfeel, making dishes feel heartier and more wholesome.