Tenderly Fried Whole Chorizo: A Crispy, Juicy Delight
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat30gram
Protein14gram
Ingredients
- Whole chorizo sausage (fresh, uncooked) – choose pork chorizo for best flavor and softness; avoid overly dry or cured types250 g
This recipe guides you through frying whole chorizo to achieve a tender, juicy inside with a crispy exterior. Perfect as a flavorful snack, appetizer, or addition to many dishes, this method is straightforward and safe for home cooks. The total cost for ingredients is approximately $8 (7 EUR, 6 GBP, 650 INR) and yields about 4 servings. Each serving contains roughly 350 kcal, rich in protein and fats. Perfect for those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The recipe is easy to follow with a cooking time of about 15 minutes plus 5 minutes preparation, making it a quick and satisfying choice for any meal.
Preparation instructions
Prepare your equipment
1Gather a non-stick frying pan and a pair of tongs. Ensure your kitchen surfaces and utensils are clean to avoid cross-contamination from raw meat.
Preheat the pan
2Heat the frying pan over medium heat for 2 minutes. This ensures the chorizo cooks evenly and gets a crispy exterior without burning.
Add the chorizo
3Place the whole chorizo sausage into the hot pan. No need to add oil, as the sausage will release its own fat. This step should take 1 minute.
Fry gently on one side
4Let the chorizo cook gently on medium heat for about 5 minutes without moving it. This forms a nice golden crust on one side, keeping the sausage juicy inside.
Turn and cook other side
5Using tongs, carefully turn the whole chorizo to cook the other side for another 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispness.
Check internal temperature
6Use a meat thermometer to check the inside of the chorizo; it must reach a safe internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Rest before serving
7Remove the chorizo from the pan and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor.
Cooking Tips
1If you're using smoked or pre-cooked chorizo, reduce frying time accordingly since they require less cooking.
2Avoid piercing the sausage with a fork while frying, as this lets out juices and can dry the sausage.
3For a softer texture, you can simmer the whole chorizo in a bit of water or wine for 10 minutes before frying to crisp the outside.
Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Clean cutting board and utensils
Shopping List
- [ ] 250g fresh pork chorizo sausage (~$8): Look for sausages that are fresh, not overly dry or cured. Fresh pork chorizo will produce a tender and juicy result.
FAQ
Can I cook chorizo whole without slicing it?
Yes, cooking chorizo whole helps keep it tender and juicy on the inside while forming a crispy skin outside.
How do I know when chorizo is fully cooked and safe to eat?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 71°C (160°F) for safety.
Do I need to add oil when frying chorizo?
No need for extra oil; chorizo releases its own fat which is enough for frying.
What if I buy cured or smoked chorizo?
Cured or smoked chorizo is already cooked or partially cooked; you only need to heat it gently to enjoy it.