Emeril Lagasse's New-Style Caldo Verde

chorizo

🥗Healthier: turkey sausage

💰Cheaper: smoked paprika

Turkey sausage reduces fat while maintaining flavor.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers a healthier fat profile.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Homemade broth enhances flavor without additives.

kale

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: collard greens

Spinach is more tender and widely available.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in diced potatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Remove bay leaves and blend soup until smooth using an immersion blender.

Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.

Add sliced chorizo and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.

Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.

Finish with a splash of lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Serve hot, garnished with croutons.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: