Home Cook Together. Celebrate Life.

SpanishAuthentic Cuisine

Chorizo a la Sidra

Serves 4 to 6 Appetizer meat, Appetizers

Chorizo a la Sidra

Chorizo a la Sidra is a staple in Asturian kitchens, where the dish is so familiar that recipes are rarely needed. It's a straightforward preparation that highlights the robust flavors of cooking chorizo simmered in Asturian natural cider, with a bay leaf adding a subtle depth.

This dish is all about simplicity and generosity, reflecting the way Spanish family cooks serve it. The chorizo absorbs the cider's tang, creating a savory, slightly sweet taste that pairs perfectly with a rustic loaf of bread. It's a comforting meal that brings the essence of Asturias to the table.

Ingredients

  • 500 gcooking chorizo — cut into thick coins
  • 400 mlAsturian natural cider
  • 1bay leaf
  • 1 tbspextra virgin olive oil
  • 1rustic loaf — to mop the pan

Method

  1. Begin by slicing the 500 g of cooking chorizo into thick rounds, about 1 cm each. This size ensures that the chorizo cooks evenly and absorbs the cider flavor without drying out. Set aside the sliced chorizo.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating it's hot enough to start cooking. Add the chorizo slices in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to brown properly.
  3. Cook the chorizo for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. This browning step is crucial as it enhances the flavor and texture of the chorizo. Once browned, remove the chorizo from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  4. Pour 400 ml of Asturian natural cider into the same pan, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to incorporate the flavorful bits left from the chorizo. Add 1 bay leaf to the cider, which will infuse the liquid with a subtle herbal note.
  5. Bring the cider to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to reduce slightly, about halfway, which will concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce. You should notice the cider becoming more syrupy and fragrant.
  6. Return the chorizo slices to the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the cider sauce. Let them simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the chorizo to soak up the cider's flavors. The chorizo should be plump and juicy, with the cider sauce clinging to its surface.
  7. While the chorizo is simmering, slice a rustic loaf into thick pieces. This bread will be perfect for soaking up the rich cider sauce.
  8. Once the chorizo is ready, transfer it to a serving dish, spooning over the cider sauce. Serve immediately with the sliced rustic loaf on the side, allowing diners to enjoy the chorizo while it's still warm and flavorful.
Cover of Authentic Spanish Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Spanish Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Spanish Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Spanish volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Buy the cookbook on Amazon Explore Spanish cuisine