Spice 101 is our series that will make you brave, then
crave, a spice or blend you’ve never tried before — and offer enough tips and recipes
to get it off your pantry shelf, and into your plate.
Chorizo Bomb is a smoky, spicy, powerhouse featuring a lineup of some of our best chiles.
History
Chorizo is a beloved sausage with rich culinary traditions in the Iberian Peninsula, equally loved by Spain and Portugal, who then influenced the development of similar dishes in Mexico and South America. All of these have their own distinct flavors and preparation methods that can even vary from family to family.
Spanish chorizo is known for its deep, smoky flavor, achieved through curing and smoking, often featuring sweet smoked paprika and garlic. It's commonly enjoyed sliced and served as part of tapas or added to stews and soups.
Portuguese chorizo, called chouriço, is made with a coarser grind of pork and often includes wine alongside the paprika and garlic. It is eaten as a staple food, often grilled and paired with cheese and crusty breads.
In contrast, Mexican chorizo is typically uncured and sold raw. It has a brighter, tangier kick and lots of heat and smoke from chile peppers like chipotle and pasilla oaxaca. It's usually crumbled and cooked and used for breakfast tacos, empanada fillings or served with refried beans.
Summary
Our Chorizo Bomb draws inspiration from all three culinary traditions. The flavor is smoky and spicy, with a rich meatiness that comes from savory herbs and chiles. This blend is salt-free, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.
Chorizo Bomb really is a flavor explosion. Its spicy, smoky, and savory profile makes it a go-to in our kitchens all year round. From autumn squash and sweet potatoes, to hearty winter stews, to spring dips, and summer grilling this blend shines anywhere you crave a smoky, spicy, chile pepper bite.
Although these spices are traditionally used to flavor meat, our Chorizo Bomb is completely vegan and delicious in veggie and plant-based dishes.
The More You Know
The process of making Urfa Biber involves curing the chiles in the sun, which allows them to develop a deep, raisin-like sweetness that complements their natural heat. This method, along with the smoking of Pasilla Oaxaca chiles, contributes to the distinctive flavor profile of Chorizo Bomb, making it a unique blend that offers more than just spiciness—it offers a story with each bite.