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Best Portuguese Kale Soup

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This traditional Portuguese Kale Soup, known as Caldo Verde, is a rustic and delicious one-pot meal made with smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and finely shredded kale. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for chilly days. A family favorite that gets better with every bowl!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion (diced)

  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 lb potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet, peeled and diced)

  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

  • 8 oz Portuguese chouriço or linguica sausage (thinly sliced)

  • 4 cups finely shredded kale (preferably curly kale)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Optional: crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent.

  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Add the diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are very tender.

  5. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to lightly mash/blend the soup—leaving some chunks for texture.

  6. Add sliced chouriço and simmer for 5 more minutes.

  7. Stir in the shredded kale and cook for another 5–7 minutes until wilted and tender.

  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  9. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and crusty bread if desired.

Notes

  • If you can’t find Portuguese chouriço, substitute with Spanish chorizo or smoked kielbasa.

  • For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth.

  • Traditionally, the kale is sliced into thin ribbons—use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors.