Best Portuguese Kale Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portuguese Kale Soup, also known as “Caldo Verde,” is a comforting, hearty dish made with tender kale, smoky sausage, and creamy potatoes. It’s a beloved staple in Portuguese cuisine, perfect for cool nights and family gatherings. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

kale (preferably Lacinato or curly kale)Yukon Gold or russet potatoeschorizo or linguiça sausageoniongarlicolive oilsaltblack pepperwater or chicken broth

directions

Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks. Set aside.

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add sliced chorizo or linguiça sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.

Add the diced potatoes and cover with water or chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup slightly.

Add chopped kale and simmer for another 5-10 minutes until wilted and tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use sweet potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrients.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Swap kale for collard greens or Swiss chard.

Use vegetarian sausage and vegetable broth for a meatless version.

Include navy beans or cannellini beans for extra heartiness.

storage/reheating

Store Portuguese Kale Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What is the best type of kale for this soup?
Lacinato kale (also called dinosaur kale) is traditional, but curly kale also works well.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Consider adding beans for protein.

Do I have to blend the soup?
No, but mashing some of the potatoes gives it a thicker, creamier texture.

What kind of sausage is best?
Portuguese linguiça is traditional, but Spanish chorizo or even kielbasa works too.

Can I use spinach instead of kale?
You can, but add it at the very end since it wilts quickly.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the sausage and broth you use are certified gluten-free.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the sausage first, then combine all ingredients (except kale) in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding kale in the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Portuguese Kale Soup is a rustic, flavorful dish that brings comfort and tradition to your table. Whether you’re honoring your heritage or trying something new, this one-pot meal is easy to make, deeply satisfying, and ideal for sharing with loved ones. Try it once, and it may become a staple in your kitchen.

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