Chorizo is a type of pork sausage that originated in the Iberian Peninsula, specifically Spain and Portugal. It is made from pork and seasoned primarily with paprika and garlic, giving it a distinctive deep red color and spicy flavor
. There are two main types of chorizo:
- Spanish chorizo: This is a fermented, cured, and smoked sausage that can be eaten without cooking, similar to salami or pepperoni. It has a smoky flavor from smoked paprika (pimentón) and is often sliced and served as tapas or used to flavor dishes. Spanish chorizo varies in spiciness depending on the region and sausage size
- Mexican chorizo: Unlike the Spanish version, Mexican chorizo is a fresh, raw sausage that must be cooked before eating. It is typically seasoned with chili peppers and vinegar instead of smoked paprika, resulting in a spicier and more pungent flavor. The casing is usually removed before cooking, and the sausage is crumbled into dishes
Chorizo is widely used in various cuisines beyond Spain and Mexico, including Latin America, the Philippines, and parts of India, with regional variations in preparation and flavor
. In summary, chorizo is a highly seasoned pork sausage with two main varieties: cured and smoked Spanish chorizo eaten sliced, and fresh, spicy Mexican chorizo that requires cooking
