Ingredients
Vegetables
- The star ingredient of our Easy Portuguese Kale Soup recipe is kale, but it’s not the only one.
- Here are some other essential ingredients that you’ll need to make this delicious and hearty soup:
- Kale: Curly-leaf or lacinato (also known as dinosaur) kale works best for this recipe. You can use fresh or frozen kale, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw it first.
- Onion: A medium-sized onion is ideal for sautéing and adding flavor to the soup.
- Garlic: Three to four cloves of garlic will give your soup a rich and aromatic taste.
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes are essential in Portuguese kale soup, so use two or three medium-sized ones.
- Spam: Yes, you read that right! In many traditional Portuguese recipes, including this one, canned Spam is used to add saltiness and texture. Feel free to omit it if you’re a vegetarian or prefer not to use processed meat.
- Broth: Use beef broth as the base of your soup for added flavor and depth.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon or two of olive oil will help sauté the onion, garlic, and potatoes before adding them to the pot.
- Bay leaves: Fresh or dried bay leaves add a subtle yet distinctive flavor to the soup. Use two or three leaves for best results.
- Other optional ingredients you can consider adding are:
- Corn: Frozen corn kernels will add sweetness and texture to your soup.
- Celery: Diced celery adds freshness and crunch, making it a great addition if you like the flavor of raw or cooked celery.
- Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can enhance the flavor of the soup and make it slightly sweeter.
- Now that we’ve covered all the essential ingredients, let’s get cooking!
1 medium onion
- The first ingredient for this Easy Portuguese Kale Soup recipe is a medium-sized onion.
- Onions are a fundamental component in many cuisines, including Portuguese cooking, and are often used to add flavor and depth to soups, stews, and other dishes.
- For the purpose of this recipe, the choice of onion size is specified as “medium.” This refers to an onion that is not too large, which might overpower the flavors in the soup, nor too small, which might result in a weak flavor profile.
- The size of the onion also affects its cooking time. A larger onion will take longer to become tender and translucent, while a smaller one will cook more quickly.
- In general, when selecting an onion for cooking, it’s essential to choose one that is firm and has no signs of sprouting or mold.
- A medium onion typically weighs around 5-6 ounces (140-170g) and has a diameter of about 2.5-3 inches (6-7.5cm).
- Onions can vary in their natural sweetness, depending on factors like the variety, growing conditions, and level of ripeness.
- In this recipe, the onion will be sautéed with garlic to create a flavorful base for the soup. Its sweetness will caramelize slightly during cooking, adding richness to the broth.
3 cloves garlic
The key to making this easy Portuguese Kale Soup recipe is using the right ingredients, which are:
We will start with some aromatics that form the base of our soup.
Garlic is a fundamental ingredient in many Portuguese dishes and adds a rich depth to our kale soup. You can mince it finely or leave it slightly chunky, depending on your personal preference.
Mince the 3 cloves of garlic until they are well-crushed.
Add this minced garlic to our sauté pan with some olive oil over medium heat and let it cook for about a minute, until fragrant. This will help to break down the cell walls of the garlic and release its full flavor potential.
2 medium carrots
The recipe for Easy Portuguese Kale Soup requires a few key ingredients to bring out the authentic flavor of traditional Portuguese cuisine. One of the essential ingredients is carrots, which play a crucial role in adding sweetness and depth to the soup.
Here’s what you’ll need: 2 medium-sized carrots that are firm and fresh. You can use any variety of carrot, but firmer varieties like Danver or Nantes work best for this recipe.
In terms of preparation, it’s essential to peel and chop the carrots into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the pot. This will help them cook evenly and quickly, ensuring they’re tender and flavorful by the time the soup is done.
Here are some fun facts about carrots that might interest you:
- Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy vision and immune function.
- There are over 400 varieties of carrots, each with its unique flavor and texture profile.
- Carrots can be eaten raw or cooked, and they’re a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a wide range of dishes.
When shopping for carrots at your local market, choose firm, fresh ones with minimal signs of blemishes or soft spots. These will yield the best flavor and texture in your Portuguese Kale Soup.
2 stalks celery
Celery is a versatile ingredient that plays a crucial role in adding flavor and texture to many dishes, including our Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe.
The key to selecting the perfect celery stalks for this recipe is to choose fresh ones with firm, crisp leaves and a crunchy texture. You can find celery at most supermarkets or farmer’s markets year-round.
For the 2 stalks of celery required in this recipe, you should aim for stalks that are about 6-8 inches long and have a diameter of around 1 inch at their base. This will ensure that they cook evenly and provide the right amount of flavor to your soup.
When using cabbage, it’s essential to trim off the tough, woody base of each celery stalk before slicing or chopping them. This will help remove any bitter flavors and make them more palatable.
To prepare the celery for cooking, slice off about an inch from the top of each stalk, leaving a clean-cut end. Then, cut the celery into 1-inch pieces, making sure to include some of the leaves as they add flavor and nutrients to your soup.
Leafy Greens
The star ingredient in this easy Portuguese Kale Soup recipe is indeed a type of leafy green, namely kale. However, there are many other delicious leafy greens that can be used as substitutes or additions to create a unique flavor and texture profile.
Kale belongs to the Brucea genus and has been consumed for centuries in various forms. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Its leaves are characterized by their curly or flat shape, with a slightly bitter taste that many find enjoyable.
Others leafy greens that pair well with kale include collard greens, spinach, kohlrabi, and watercress. Each of these has its own unique flavor profile and texture, which can enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of the soup.
When selecting leafy greens for this recipe or any other dish, look for those with vibrant colors and no signs of wilting. Avoid greens that have been exposed to high temperatures, as they may have lost some of their nutritional value. Instead, choose fresh greens that have been stored properly in a refrigerator.
Some popular ways to prepare leafy greens include steaming, sautéing, or stir-frying. For the Portuguese Kale Soup recipe, you can add chopped kale towards the end of cooking, allowing it to wilt into the flavorful broth.
This easy soup recipe showcases the versatility and nutritional benefits of leafy greens. Feel free to experiment with different types of greens to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds!
1 bunch Portuguese kale (about 1 pound)
The star ingredient of this recipe is the Portuguese kale, a type of leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in traditional Portuguese cuisine. Also known as “couve galega,” it has a slightly bitter flavor and a crunchy texture that holds up well to cooking.
One bunch of Portuguese kale typically weighs around 1 pound, which should be sufficient for this recipe. It’s essential to choose fresh leaves with no signs of wilting or browning, as they will not only taste better but also retain their nutritional value.
The bitterness of the kale is balanced by its mild flavor, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes. When cooked, Portuguese kale retains some of its crunch while developing a tender texture, which adds depth and variety to soups and stews.
In this recipe, the Portuguese kale will add a burst of green flavor to the soup, complementing the rich flavors of the chicken broth and the savory taste of the potatoes. Its slightly bitter undertones will also help to balance out the sweetness of the carrots and other vegetables used in the recipe.
It’s worth noting that Portuguese kale can be found at most specialty grocery stores or farmers’ markets, especially during the fall and winter months when it’s in season. If you’re unable to find this specific type of kale, feel free to substitute with a similar leafy green vegetable such as collard greens or mustard greens.
Liquids and Seasonings
The key to a delicious and authentic Portuguese kale soup is selecting the right ingredients, liquids, and seasonings. Here are some essential components that will elevate your dish:
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, chopped (about 3 cups)
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
- 2 cups of fresh kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 pound of chourico or Portuguese sausage, sliced
- 6 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (for frying)
Liquids
The liquids in this recipe are the foundation of a hearty and flavorful soup. You will need:
- 6 cups of chicken broth, preferably homemade or store-bought low-sodium
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine (optional), which adds a rich and fruity flavor to the soup
Seasonings
Portuguese cuisine is all about bold flavors and aromas. To achieve this, use the following seasonings:
- Dried oregano: adds a savory and slightly bitter flavor to the soup
- Smoked paprika: gives the soup a smoky and slightly sweet flavor
- Salt and pepper, to taste: adjust the seasoning according to your preference
Remember, the key to an authentic Portuguese kale soup is using high-quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together. Take your time while cooking, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious and comforting meal.
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
The ingredients for the Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe are as follows:
For a delicious and authentic flavor, it’s essential to choose high-quality ingredients that will elevate the taste of your soup.
Below are the required ingredients:
Stock
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This is a fundamental component in making the soup. You can choose between chicken and vegetable broth, depending on your preference. Chicken broth will add a richer flavor to the soup, while vegetable broth will make it lighter. It’s also possible to use store-bought broth or make it from scratch using chicken bones and vegetables.
Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This will be used to sauté the onions, garlic, and kale. Use a good quality extra-virgin olive oil for better flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: The sweetness of the onion adds depth to the soup, so use a sweet onion variety like Vidalia or Maui.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Like onions, garlic is used in abundance in Portuguese cooking. Mince it well for best flavor.
- 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped: Kale is the star of the show here! Choose a fresh bunch with minimal wilted leaves. Use only the tender leaves for this recipe.
Milk or Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk: This adds a rich, creamy texture to the soup. You can also use half-and-half if you want an even richer flavor.
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Smoked or sweet paprika gives the soup a distinctive color and smoky flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Use kosher salt for best flavor. Adjust to taste as needed.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground: Freshly grind your own peppercorns for the most vibrant flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious and authentic Portuguese Kale Soup!
1/2 cup dry white wine
The ingredients for this Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe include a variety of essential components that work together to create a flavorful and nourishing dish.
Key Ingredients
- Dry White Wine: This recipe calls for 1/2 cup of dry white wine, which serves as the base for the soup’s rich flavors. The white wine adds depth and a subtle tanginess to the broth.
The type of dry white wine used is crucial in this recipe. A neutral-tasting wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works well, as it won’t overpower the other ingredients. Avoid using oak-aged wines or those with strong fruit flavors, as they may alter the soup’s character.
When selecting a dry white wine, consider its acidity level and how it will balance the other components in the soup. A wine with higher acidity will help to cut through the richness of the kale and pork.
In terms of specific brands or varieties, feel free to experiment with different options to find your preferred choice. Some popular dry white wines that work well in this recipe include:
- Pinot Grigio
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay (non-oak aged)
- Gewürztraminer
Remember, the quality of the wine will not only affect the flavor but also impact the overall character of the soup. Choose a dry white wine that you enjoy drinking on its own, and it will likely translate well to this recipe.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Smoked paprika is an essential ingredient that adds depth and a smoky flavor to the Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe.
- The reason smoked paprika stands out among other types of paprika is its distinctive, rich flavor that comes from being smoked over oak wood.
- This process gives it a deep, slightly sweet, and savory taste with hints of spice, which complements the earthy sweetness of kale perfectly.
- Smoked paprika’s strong flavor means only a small amount is needed to bring out its characteristic taste in the soup without overpowering the other ingredients.
- In this recipe, one teaspoon of smoked paprika serves as a seasoning that enhances and unifies all the flavors in the soup.
Salt and pepper to taste
To add flavor to our Easy Portuguese Kale Soup, we’ll be using a variety of ingredients. Let’s break them down:
Salt and Pepper:
- We’ll use salt and pepper to taste in this recipe. This means that you can adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your personal preference.
Other Essential Ingredients:
- Kale: We’ll be using curly kale, a popular type of leafy green vegetable commonly used in Portuguese cuisine.
- Bone Broth: A good quality bone broth is the base of our soup. It provides a rich and savory flavor that’s perfect for cooking up a comforting meal.
- Garlic: We’ll be using three cloves of garlic, minced to release their natural oils and flavor.
- Olive Oil: A neutral-tasting oil like olive oil is perfect for sautéing the garlic without adding any extra flavors to the soup.
- Pancetta or Bacon: We’ll be using either pancetta or bacon to add a smoky, savory flavor to our soup. You can choose one or the other, depending on your personal preference.
- Onion: A medium-sized onion is used in this recipe, diced and sautéed with the garlic for added depth of flavor.
- Chicken Sausage: Portuguese chicken sausage, such as Chourico or Linguiça, adds a spicy kick to our soup. You can use any type of sausage you like, but these are traditional choices in Portuguese cuisine.
- White Wine (optional): A small amount of white wine is added to the pot for extra flavor and depth. This is optional, so feel free to omit it if you prefer.
- These ingredients come together to create a hearty, flavorful soup that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Bon appétit!
Instructions
Cook the Aromatics
To cook the aromatics for the Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe, follow these steps:
First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will help to create a smooth and even cooking environment.
Add 1 small onion, diced, to the pot and sauté until it is translucent and starts to caramelize. Be patient and allow the onion to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the onion is tender, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Add 1 medium-sized carrot, peeled and grated, to the pot along with 2 stalks of celery, chopped. Continue to sauté the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and blend together in harmony.
After the vegetables have reached your desired level of doneness, add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the aromatics.
Finally, remove the pot from the heat source and set it aside until you are ready to proceed with the next step in the recipe. The cooked aromatics will form the foundation of your delicious Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe.
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
When it comes to cooking, following instructions is crucial to achieving the desired outcome. In the case of the Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe, the first instruction is to heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
This initial step serves as the foundation for the entire recipe. By heating the olive oil, we are creating an environment that will allow us to sauté the aromatics and cook the ingredients evenly. The use of olive oil is particularly well-suited for this recipe, as it provides a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking at medium heat.
The importance of following instructions in this step cannot be overstated. If we were to use less than 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the dish may not have enough moisture to cook the kale and other ingredients properly. Conversely, using too much olive oil could result in a greasy and unhealthy soup.
Similarly, heating the oil over medium heat is essential. If the heat is too high, the oil may burn or smoke, imparting an unpleasant flavor to the dish. On the other hand, if the heat is too low, the ingredients may not cook evenly, leading to a subpar texture and flavor.
The significance of following instructions in this initial step sets the tone for the rest of the recipe. It establishes a foundation of quality and attention to detail that is essential for creating a delicious and satisfying meal. By heating the olive oil over medium heat, we are demonstrating our commitment to cooking with care and precision, which is critical for achieving success in any recipe.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until tender.
In this easy Portuguese kale soup recipe, instructions on how to add certain ingredients are crucial to achieving a delicious and flavorful result.
The first step involves sautéing some aromatics, which sets the foundation for the rest of the dish. To do this, you need to chop an onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into small pieces.
These chopped ingredients are then added to the pot or pan where you will be cooking the soup. It’s essential to use a sufficient amount of oil or butter to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pan and promote even browning.
Once the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery have been added, cook them until tender. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on your stove’s heat setting and the size of your pan.
The key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture in this soup is to ensure that the vegetables are cooked until they reach a state of tenderness. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into one of the vegetables – if it slides in easily, you know it’s time to move on to the next step.
By following these simple steps and adding the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery at the right stage of cooking, you will be well on your way to creating a delicious and authentic Portuguese kale soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Add Broth and Wine
To make this delicious Easy Portuguese Kale Soup recipe, you will need to follow these instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, gather all the necessary ingredients and have them ready for use.
- 4 slices of chorizo or linguiça, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups diced kale (stems removed and discarded)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Next, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the Chorizo and Onion
Add the chorizo slices to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove the cooked chorizo from the pot and set it aside for later use.
Then, add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Add the Garlic and Spices
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Next, add salt and black pepper to taste.
Simmer the Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
While the soup is simmering, add the cooked kale to the pot and stir well.
Add the Wine (optional)
If using white wine, pour it into the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Finish with Chorizo
Add the cooked chorizo back into the pot and stir well to combine. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or scallions (optional).
Pour in the broth and white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
The next step involves adding two essential liquids to the pot, which will greatly impact the flavor and consistency of the soup.
Pouring in the broth is the first task at hand. The type of broth used can vary depending on personal preference or dietary restrictions. For a more authentic taste, chicken or beef broth might be preferred, while vegetable broth provides a suitable option for vegetarians. Regardless of choice, ensure the broth is warmed before adding it to the pot.
The second liquid to add is white wine. White wine contributes a subtle depth of flavor and helps to loosen any particles stuck to the bottom of the pan. It’s essential not to omit this step or substitute with other liquids, as it can significantly impact the soup’s overall taste and texture.
Once the broth and white wine are in place, use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned residues are typically the result of the initial browning process earlier in the recipe. They contain concentrated flavors that would otherwise go to waste if left at the bottom of the pan.
Combining the broth and white wine with these flavorful remnants will create a rich and savory soup, setting the stage for the final stages of preparation, including adding kale, simmering, and seasoning to taste.
Simmer and Purée
To prepare this delicious and comforting Easy Portuguese Kale Soup Recipe, it’s essential to follow a series of steps that involve cooking, simmering, and puréeing the ingredients.
Here are the instructions broken down into smaller tasks:
- Cook the Kale: Remove the stems from the kale leaves and chop them coarsely. Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the chopped kale until it’s tender.
- Sauté the Onions, Garlic, and Potatoes: Add some sliced onions, minced garlic, and diced potatoes to the pot with the cooked kale. Cook until the onions are translucent and the potatoes are slightly tender.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in a large can of chicken or vegetable broth into the pot and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through.To simmer
- Reduce the heat to a low temperature (usually between 150°F to 180°F or 65°C to 82°C).
- Lets the liquid cook slowly and gently, without stirring too much, allowing the flavors to meld together.
To purée:
- Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Add some water if the soup is too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finally, serve the Portuguese Kale Soup hot, garnished with some chopped kale or scallions for added flavor and color. Enjoy!
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2025 minutes or until the kale is tender.
To prepare this delicious Portuguese Kale Soup, it’s essential to follow these steps carefully, particularly when it comes to cooking the kale.
The first step involves bringing a pot of water to a boil, which is crucial for starting the cooking process. Once the water has reached its boiling point, you need to reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer.
This simmering process is where the magic happens in this recipe, as the kale cooks slowly and tenderly in the flavorful broth. The recommended duration for this step is 2025 minutes, although the actual time may vary depending on the freshness and type of kale you’re using.
To achieve the desired texture, it’s essential to check the kale regularly while it’s simmering. You can do this by inserting a fork or knife into the leaves; if they slide in easily, it’s likely that they are tender enough. Alternatively, you can taste a small piece of kale to ensure it has reached your desired level of doneness.
Remember that overcooking the kale can make it mushy and unappetizing, so keep an eye on its texture as it simmers. By following these instructions carefully, you’ll be able to create a delicious and nutritious Kale Soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
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