Portuguese Caldo Verde: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Classic Green Soup，Get ready to savor the flavors of Portugal with this delicious Caldo Verde recipe! Follow these easy steps to create a comforting bowl of this iconic soup.
Ingredients You ll Need
1. 1 large head of curly kale (cavalo-pesado) 2. 1 medium onion, finely chopped 3. 3 garlic cloves, minced 4. 4-5 slices of smoked ham, diced 5. 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (coriander) 6. 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth 7. 1/2 tsp of cumin 8. Salt and pepper, to taste 9. Olive oil for sautéing 10. Croutons or hard-boiled eggs, for serving (optional)
Preparation and Cooking Process
1. Chop and Prep: Remove tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Base: Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Greens: Pour in the kale and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 more minutes to wilt the leaves.
4. Introduce the Ham: Stir in the diced ham, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Cook for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
6. Season and Finish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture (optional).
7. Plate and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, croutons, or a poached egg for a touch of luxury.
The Evolution of Caldo Verde
Caldo Verde has its roots in rural Portugal, where it was a hearty meal to warm the bellies of farmers. Today, it s a staple on menus across the country and a symbol of Portuguese culinary heritage. As global tastes evolve, chefs are experimenting with variations, incorporating local ingredients, and modern twists, keeping this classic soup relevant and exciting.
So, gather your ingredients and let your taste buds embark on a journey through Portugal s culinary landscape with every spoonful of this comforting Caldo Verde.